Capillaria philippinensis (commonly associated with intestinal capillariasis)
Capillaria philippinensis Details:
Type:
Helminth (parasitic roundworm)
Category:
Nematodes (Roundworms)
Transmission Type:
Foodborne (consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish)
Primary Target Area:
Small intestine
Lifecycle Form:
Egg, larval stage, adult worm (intestinal stage)
Incubation Period:
Symptoms may develop weeks after ingestion.
Transmission:
Capillaria philippinensis infection occurs when raw or undercooked freshwater fish containing infective larvae are consumed. Humans serve as both host and site of worm maturation.
- Eating raw freshwater fish
- Consuming improperly cooked fish dishes
- Traditional raw fish meals in endemic areas
Capillaria philippinensis Is Found In
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Other parts of Southeast Asia
- Occasional cases in the Middle East
Outbreaks have been reported in communities with raw fish consumption practices.
Is Capillaria philippinensis Common?
Intestinal capillariasis is relatively rare globally but may occur in endemic regions where raw freshwater fish consumption is common.
Information about Capillaria philippinensis:
Capillaria philippinensis is a parasitic roundworm that infects the small intestine. Unlike many other nematodes, it can multiply within the human host, potentially leading to heavy infection if untreated.
Severe infection may result in protein loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Diagnosis is typically made by identifying characteristic eggs or worms in stool samples.
Possible Symptoms of Capillaria philippinensis
- Chronic diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Edema (in severe cases due to protein loss)
Symptoms may worsen if infection is prolonged.
How long does Capillaria philippinensis last (Duration)?
Without treatment, infection may persist and worsen due to internal multiplication of the parasite. Duration depends on parasite burden and medical intervention.
Anything Else Relevant to Capillaria philippinensis
- Causes intestinal capillariasis
- Associated with raw freshwater fish consumption
- Can multiply within the human host
- May lead to protein-losing enteropathy
- Preventable through proper cooking of fish
High Risk Groups for Capillaria philippinensis
- Individuals consuming raw freshwater fish
- Communities in endemic Southeast Asian regions
- Residents of rural fishing communities
Preventing Capillaria philippinensis
Prevention Measures May Include:
- Cooking freshwater fish thoroughly
- Avoiding raw fish dishes in endemic areas
- Improving food safety practices
Added Complications from Capillaria philippinensis
Possible Complications (in some cases):
- Severe malnutrition
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Protein-losing enteropathy
- Dehydration from chronic diarrhea
Medical evaluation is recommended for persistent diarrhea or unexplained weight loss following raw fish consumption.
