Cestode Helminths of the Small Intestine

Helminthic infections are most common when poor water quality, inadequate sanitation, and overcrowding are present. Cestode helminths are among these common infections, and they are highest in children and among immunocompromized individuals. Infection is mainly through the consumption of foods and drinks contaminated with the infective stages, eating raw or undercooked meat or fish infected with parasitic stages, flies, food handlers, and autoinfection. Cestode infection causes diarrhea, malabsorption, abdominal colic, discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dysentery, and/or constipation. Also, anemia, malnutrition, and indigestion among infected children. The following are the commonest cestodes infecting the small intestine: