Opisthorchiasis is a parasitic disease caused by a group of parasitic flatworms called Opisthorchis. It is commonly referred to as liver fluke infection. The primary cause of this disease is the ingestion of raw or undercooked fish that contain infective larvae of the Opisthorchis species.
Once ingested, the larvae develop into adult flukes within the bile ducts of the liver. The adult parasites cause inflammation, blockage, and damage to the bile ducts, disrupting the flow of bile and potentially leading to complications like liver enlargement, liver fibrosis, and even liver cancer.
Symptoms of opisthorchiasis can vary depending on the severity of the infection but commonly include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, jaundice, and fever. Often, these symptoms are mild or nonexistent, making diagnosis challenging. However, long-term infections may result in more severe symptoms and complications.
Opisthorchiasis is most prevalent in regions where raw or undercooked fish is a dietary staple, particularly in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The disease is preventable through proper cooking of fish and the avoidance of raw fish consumption.
Treatment for opisthorchiasis typically involves the use of antiparasitic medications, such as praziquantel, which can effectively eliminate the adult flukes. However, if complications like liver damage or cancer have occurred, additional treatments may be necessary.
Efforts to prevent opisthorchiasis include health education campaigns, proper sanitation, and regulations related to fish processing and sale to ensure fish is adequately cooked before consumption.
