Metacercariae encysted on aquatic vegetation
Route of infection: consumption of raw aquatic vegetation
(Can also occur when night soil is used as fertilizer)
Definitive host: Man and Pig
Intermediate host;
》1st intermediate host: snails of genera Segmentina, Hippeutis
》2nd intermediate host: Aquatic vegetation.
Lab diagnosis is mainly limited to Stool Examination.
Eggs of F. buski and F. hepatica are indistinguishable, clinical diagnosis helps to distinguish.
Adult worms can be recovered after purgative or antihelminthic treatment.
Treatment: DOC 》Praziquantel
Prophylaxis:
Avoid eating raw aquatic vegetation.
Discontinue using night soil as a fertilizer/ sterilize night soil when used as a fertilizer.
Molluscicides can be of help in endemic areas.