[Intestinal helminthiases]

Abstract

Intestinal helminthiases are infections in which adult helminths (nematodes, trematodes, cestodes) parasitize the intestine. In Central Europe intestinal helminthiases are usually acquired during travel or are imported by migrants. In contrast, in developing countries, intestinal helminthiases are highly prevalent. The mode of transmission and the clinical picture depend on the helminth species. Special laboratory methods are needed to diagnose the different intestinal helminthiases. Nematodes are usually treated with the benzimidazoles mebendazole and albendazole. Ivermectin, a macrocyclic lactone, is an alternative. Praziquanel is the drug of choice for the treatment of intestinal cestodes.