Ancient dicrocoeliosis: Occurrence, distribution and migration

Abstract

This paper focuses on the lancet fluke, Dicrocoelium sp., and includes a complete review of the literature as well as numerous new research results. The compilation of all these data led to a global overview of ancient dicrocoeliosis history. The presence of the lancet fluke in Western Europe was attested from 550,000 years BP to the 16th century AD Moreover, the parasite was identified in the New World around the 17th century AD following the colonization of Canada by Europeans. The role of human and animal migrations is discussed.