Life
Cycle of Hymenolepis Nana
The Hymenolepis nana, aka dwarf
tapeworm, infection is the most common tapeworm infection in the
world. You can become infected with Hymenolepis nana by ingesting
foods and water that have been contaminated with tapeworm eggs,
as well as by touching your mouth with contaminated fingers and
by consuming infested soil.
Once you are infected by Hymenolepis nana, you will experience symptoms
such as:
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
The Hymenolepis nana can grow to be up to
2 inches long and sometimes you can see its segments (proglottids)
in your stool.
The life cycle of Hymenolepis nana begins when the eggs are ingested
by a person or animal via contaminated food or water. The larvae
will then pierce the intestines and develop into cysticercoid larvae.
Once the intestines have been penetrated, the larvae will return
to the intestinal lumen and attach to its mucosa so they can develop
into adults. Eggs will then pass out of the body with the stool.
Autoinfection is possible, though, when the eggs release their embryo
and penetrate the intestine walls creating an infection from within
instead of from infected food or water.
The life span of adult worms can last 4 to 6 weeks, but with autoinfection,
a person can be infected with Hymenolepis nana for many years. If
you suspect you may be infected with Hymenolepis nana, consult your
doctor immediately for treatment.
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