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Helminthic infections of the liver

Current Gastroenterology Reports volume 6, Article number: 287 (2004) Cite this article

Abstract

Human helminthic infestation is exceedingly common on a global scale, with as many as 1.5 to 2 billion people affected worldwide. Helminths (parasitic worms) that infect the liver and hepatobiliary system include nematodes (roundworms), cestodes (tapeworms), and trematodes (flatworms or flukes). The majority of morbidity and mortality from these infestations is caused by the host immune response to the larvae or adult worm. Helminthic disease manifestations vary from the extremes of asymptomatic carriage to cirrhosis and decompensated liver disease. Current basic science and clinical research focus on improvements in medical therapy, mass screening and chemoprophylaxis, and the development of preventative vaccine strategies.

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Affiliations

  1. Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Liver Research Consortium, Scripps Clinic, 10666 North Torrey Pines Road, 92037, La Jolla, CA, USA

    Paul J. Pockros MD

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  1. Paul J. Pockros MD
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  2. Thomas A. Capozza MD
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Pockros, P.J., Capozza, T.A. Helminthic infections of the liver. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 6, 287 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-004-0080-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-004-0080-8

Keywords

  • Schistosomiasis
  • Adult Worm
  • Praziquantel
  • Liver Fluke
  • Ascariasis