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Rheumatology24 papers

Cestode infection

Last edited: 4/16/2026

Overview

Cestode infections involve parasitic flatworms (tapeworms) that can invade various tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract, leading to diverse clinical presentations depending on the species and host. 1

Diagnosis

  • Histologic examination is crucial for confirming cestode presence, especially in identifying scolices and their invasion patterns within host tissues. 1
  • Differential diagnosis should include consideration of helminthic causes for gastrointestinal nodules, particularly in avian species like flamingos. 1
  • Management

  • Specific treatment details are not provided in the abstract; however, general anti-cestodial therapy often involves praziquantel or niclosamide. 1
  • Surgical intervention may be necessary for severe cases involving extensive tissue invasion or complications, as indicated by the need for necropsy in the flamingo case. 1
  • Special Populations

  • No specific information regarding pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities is provided in the given abstracts. 1
  • Key Recommendations

  • Include helminthic infections in the differential diagnosis for gastrointestinal nodules observed in avian species, particularly flamingos. (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • Histologic examination is essential for diagnosing cestode infections, focusing on identifying scolices and their impact on host tissue architecture. (Evidence: Moderate) 1
  • Consider surgical evaluation in cases where cestode invasion leads to significant tissue distortion or complications, as seen in severe avian infections. (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • References

    1 Poynton SL, Mukherjee G, Strandberg JD. Cestodiasis with intestinal diverticulosis in a lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor). Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians 2000. link031[0096:CWIDIA]2.0.CO;2)

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Cestodiasis with intestinal diverticulosis in a lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor).Poynton SL, Mukherjee G, Strandberg JD Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (2000)

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