The Hymenolepis
nana is also known as the Dwarf Tapeworm. There are 400 species
of Hymenolepis. It is the Hymenolepis nana that is known as
the Human Tapeworm. Beetles and fleas are the intermediate
hosts (the tapeworm does not always need this host), and humans
are both the primary and definitive hosts and can reinfect
themselves. Once the eggs are ingested they hatch, go through
their larval stage in the small intestine, and then move into
the tissue in the gut and grow to adulthood. Hymenolepis nana
infestations are prevalent in highly populated areas where
hygiene and sanitary conditions are poor.
Symptoms of the Hymenolepis nana are: anorexia, abdominal
pain, and diarrhea, however, symptoms often go unnoticed.
