Description
Trichinella spiralis is a nematode; a parasitic worm. Infection occurs when infected undercooked pork or wild game is eaten and viable larvae are ingested. The larvae develop into adults in the small intestine and lay eggs. The newly hatched larvae penetrate the intestinal wall and travel to muscle, thus completing their life cycle. The infection damages muscles and later on can parasite can cause heart, lung and central nervous system problems.
Symptoms
Early symptoms are abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. After one to two weeks, the usual symptoms are muscle pain and soreness, fever, weakness, and facial swelling. The white parts of the eye can turn red.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests to establish the diagnosis will be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Troponin, X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Muscle biopsy, CPK, serologic test
Specialists:
Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests to establish the diagnosis will be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Troponin, X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Muscle biopsy, CPK, serologic test
Specialists:
Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Treatment
Therapy depends on the extent of infection and the organs involved. Anti-parasitic medications (mebendazole/Vermox, albendazole/Albenza) are given to eliminate any remaining worms in the intestine.