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134 11 Cestodes: Tapeworms
Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
Gravid proglottids may migrate actively from the anus. Human infection is gener-
ally asymptomatic. Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and anal pruritus may occur in some
patients.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made by identification of proglottids or egg packets in stool via
microscopy.
Treatment
The drug of choice is praziquantel (5–10 mg/kg orally in a single-dose therapy).
Prevention and Control
1. Periodic deworming of infected dogs and cats
2. Control of fleas so that the animals do not become reinfected
3. Treatment of cases
