Common Name(s):
Dwarf Tapeworm Infection
Alternative Names & Classifications:
Hymenolepiasis (CLINICAL), Hymenolepis Nana Infection (CLINICAL)
Description
Hymenolepis nana is entirely unique among human tapeworms because it can complete its entire life cycle directly within a single human host without needing an intermediate vector. Eggs ingested from a contaminated environment hatch in the gut, burrow into the villi to develop, and re-emerge as adults to perpetuate an ongoing autoinfection cycle. It disproportionately affects children living in warm climates with poor sanitation infrastructure.