Trichinellosis, commonly known as trichinosis, is a parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Trichinella. These are caused by consuming undercooked or raw meat from animals contaminated with worm larvae. Infection is frequent in wild meat-eating (carnivorous) species like bears and cougars, as well as in meat and plant-eating (omnivorous) animals like domestic pigs and wild boars. Trichinellosis is most prevalent in rural areas of the world.
SYMPTOMS
The initial infection may or may not be accompanied by symptoms. Within one week of the initial infection, however, the larvae will infiltrate the muscle tissue. Typically, after this occurs, the symptoms become obvious.
Symptoms of Trichinellosis that might arise when the larvae are in the intestines include:
Trichinosis symptoms after larval penetration into muscle tissue may include:
DIAGNOSIS
Your physician might be able to diagnose trichinellosis by evaluating your medical records and examining your symptoms. Additionally, they may do diagnostic testing to identify whether any larvae are present in your system.
To diagnose trichinellosis, your physician may do the following examination:
Blood Test: A Trichinella infection may be indicated by elevated numbers of white blood cells and the existence of antibodies against the parasite.
Muscle Biopsy: During a muscle biopsy, your physician will extract a tiny sample of muscle tissue and examine it for Trichinella larvae.
TREATMENT
Trichinellosis does not usually need medical attention. Without therapy, the infection may disappear within several months after the commencement of symptoms. However, drugs are often used to control symptoms and prevent problems from occurring.
To treat the infection, your physician may prescribe antiparasitic medication to clear your body of parasites (typically albendazole or mebendazole), steroids to assist in reducing inflammation, and pain medication for muscular pain.
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