Fasciolopsiasis
ORPHA:658909· ICD-10 B66.5
Definition
A rare parasitic disease characterized by infection with the intestinal parasitic flatworm Fasciolopsis buski by ingestion of metacercariae via undercooked contaminated aquatic plants or contaminated water. Adult worms are the largest flukes infecting humans and attach to and ulcerate the mucosa of the proximal small bowel. Patients may be asymptomatic or present abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and signs of malabsorption, potentially also intestinal obstruction, 30 to 60 days after exposure. Peripheral eosinophilia may be observed. Severe malabsorption may lead to edema and ascites due to protein loss.