Tapeworms are ribbon-shaped parasitic worms that can infest humans and animals. Infestation usually occurs by eating undercooked meat or fish that contains tapeworm eggs or larvae, although it may also occur by transferring worm eggs from the fingers to the mouth.
In the intestine, the eggs and larvae mature into adult tapeworms. The adults produce large numbers of eggs, which are passed out in bowel movements and may be visible in the feces.
Tapeworms from beef, pork, and fish usually cause only mild abdominal discomfort or diarrhea.
Rarely, fish tapeworms may cause anemia . However, ingesting pork tapeworm eggs may lead to the formation of cysts in body tissues. This condition, called cysticercosis, may cause symptoms such as muscle pain, seizures (fits), and blindness.
Tapeworm larvae acquired from dogs or sheep may rarely lead to hydatid cysts (Echinococcosis) in body organs. Treatment of tapeworm infestation is with anthelmintic medication, which kills the worms