Liver fluke

Liver fluke is a common name for a group of parasitic flatworms that infect the liver of various mammals, including humans. The two most common species that infect humans are Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica.

Life cycle

The life cycle of the liver fluke involves two hosts. The primary host, where the flukes reproduce, is usually a mammal such as a human, sheep or cattle. The secondary host, where the flukes develop and multiply, is a species of freshwater snail.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Infection with liver flukes can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe liver disease. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, and in severe cases, cirrhosis of the liver. Diagnosis is usually made by identifying the eggs of the fluke in a stool sample.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment for liver fluke infection typically involves the use of anti-parasitic drugs. Prevention strategies include avoiding raw or undercooked freshwater fish and shellfish, and ensuring that water supplies are not contaminated with the eggs of the fluke.

See also

• Parasitic worm
• Liver disease
• Fascioliasis

Liver fluke Resources
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