The parasitological, immunological, and molecular diagnosis of human taeniasis with special emphasis on Taenia solium taeniasis

Abstract

Human neurocysticercosis, caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Taenia solium, is an important neurological disorder reported as a major cause of epilepsy. An important risk factor for neurocysticercosis is the presence of human T. solium carriers who, upon open defecation, disseminate tapeworm eggs, which are infective to both humans and pigs. In the latter, infection also results in cysticercosis, with associated health and economic consequences. Control of T. solium therefore depends greatly on accurate detection and treatment of carriers. However, the currently available direct diagnostic tests depend on detection, in feces, of either parasite stages or parasite antigens and genetic material. The former are low cost but lack adequate sensitivity and specificity; the latter are too expensive to be routinely utilized in endemic communities. Indirect tests based on antibody detection may only show exposure and not active infection. An ideal diagnostic test should be one that is low cost and is able to quickly and reliably detect tapeworm carriers so that appropriate treatment can be prescribed in order to eliminate the source of infection. Such a test remains elusive. Efforts should, therefore, be directed at formulation of a test that is not only sensitive and specific but also affordable for use in endemic countries.