Human diphyllobothriasis in Patagonia, Argentina

Abstract

Objective: In view of the amateur fishing practices and the importance of salmonids in the region the study sets out to detect human hosts in the Andean-Patagonian zone. Material and Method: Information campaigns were carried out by Clinical Analysis Laboratories of Andean Patagonia between 1986 and 1995 to detect diphyllobothriasis more efficiently by means of coproparasitological analysis. Results: Further, forms were prepared for the collection of information about infection, treatment and the characteristics of the human host. During this period 13 new cases were registered either through direct identification of the parasite or through the presence of eggs in the faeces. The characteristics of infection are similar to those described for the genus Diphyllobothrium. Conclusion: The favourite game fish in Andean Patagonia are salmonids. This fish, often infected with plerocercoids, when eaten insufficiently cooked or cold smoked, constitutes the main source of human infection.