Capillariasis as an Emerging Foodborne Helminthic Disease

Abstract

Capillariasis is a parasitic disease in humans caused by Capillaria species. Three species of Capillaria are well known human parasites, namely: Capillaria philippinensis,C. aerophila and C. hepatica. Numerous mammals are affected by the Capillaria hepatica, which causes hepatic capillariasis. Several murid rodent species are the main hosts of C. hepatica. Rarely do humans become infected as the second host. The host that ingests immature eggs develops spurious infection. The production of larvae that can infiltrate the intestinal wall and cause hepatica capillariasis, on the other hand, signals the onset of true infection when the host consumes embryonated eggs. The two main risk factors for human infestation are believed to be poor hygiene and interaction with rodents or other animals. Detecting the parasite in liver tissue or parasite-specific antibodies in a patient's serum is required for the conclusive diagnosis of C. hepatica infection. Antihelminthic drugs, particularly benzimidazoles, are the cornerstone of treatment. For the prevention of the disease, rodent feed and bedding stock should be kept free of contamination by animal feces, especially those of dogs, cats, and feral rodents. Capillaria philippinensis is the uncommon parasite that causes human intestinal capillariasis. Several types of raw or undercooked freshwater fish that have larvae inside the muscle cause infection when consumed. An intestinal capillariasis caused by C. philippinensis is characterized by diarrhea and abdominal pain. It is possible for a fatal enteropathy to develop. The diagnosis is made when distinctive eggs are seen in the feces. The drug of preference for the treatment of intestinal capillariasis is albendazole. Cooking fish and proper cleaning of the hands after handling food can prevent the infection.