Opisthorchiasis

Opisthorchiasis is an infectious disease caused by tiny flatworms, known as Opisthorchis spp. These parasites inhabit the bile ducts of humans and some other mammals. It is very common in many parts of Asia, Eastern Europe, and North Africa, where it is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked fish. Symptoms of opisthorchiasis include abdominal pain, biliary tract obstruction, a buildup of bile in the liver, jaundice, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Left untreated, this parasitical condition can lead to even more serious health complications, such as fibrosis and chronic cholangitis. Diagnosis is based on laboratory tests and the detection of the parasites in the stool or bile. Treatment is usually done with the administration of anti-parasitic drugs, such as praziquantel.