Dear David Conn

I think this may be explained by several factors, namely increase of wild carnivore populations, higher intertransmissibility between wild and domestic carnivores, high degree of ingestion of small vertebrates (paratenic hosts) by both, misdiagnosis in faecal exams (lack of knowledge on this kind of cestode eggs) in carnivores and lack of attention in differential diagnosis regarding small animal peritonitis (see attached file on this issue written by american colleagues). Besides and still regarding domestic carnivores, the only drugs 100% effective against these cestodes are praziquantel and epsiprantel. Therefore, a thorough coprological exam (to assess infection and the degree of endemicity of the area) and a regular deworming with those products it's essential for a good control.

In what concerns the human part, the higher contact with these cestode eggs shed in carnivore faecal samples in the wild (namely during outdoor activities or while grabbing wild berries), may contribute a great deal to this scenario.

Finally, these cestodes are commonly neglected in practice, but this has to change due to their zoonotic potential and consequences on animal health.

Best regards

Luis Manuel Madeira de Carvalho

Associate Professor of Veterinary Parasitology and Parasitice Diseases

Thanks for the responses, Luis and George.  The details are very helpful.  My lab continues to look for cases around the world in several hosts.  I request anyone who thinks they have seen such an infection to contact me.  Best wishes.  Bruce