​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Cestode induced Diarrhea ( Hymenolepis nana)

​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Cestode induced Diarrhea ( Hymenolepis nana) 
Cestode-induced Diarrhea is caused by Hymenolepis nana, a type of segmented flatworm known as a dwarf tapeworm. This tapeworm is the tiniest among adult tapeworms. The complete life cycle occurs within people.
The etiology of this condition involves humans as the definitive host, with no necessary intermediate hosts. The mode of transmission is through the ingestion of fecal matter.
Particularly common among children. Hymenolepis nana is a prevalent tapeworm infection, particularly in the southeastern region of the United States.

Infections typically do not show symptoms when there are just a few worms present, but as the number of worms increases, gastrointestinal symptoms become more apparent.

Eggs are highly contagious. After being consumed, the larvae undergo development and attach themselves to the intestine. The adult worms are of diminutive size, measuring 2–5 cm in length, and generate eggs that are excreted in feces. The host can experience autoinfection, leading to a significant increase in the number of worms, often reaching several hundred.

Detection of H nana eggs (including a six-hooked embryo) in stool is indicative of the presence of the parasite.
The standard course of treatment usually consists of praziquantel. The most effective approach to prevention is implementing measures that eradicate the transmission of fecal matter through the mouth.