CLINICAL ASPECTS OF INFECTION WITH TRICHINELLA SPP

Isolated cases and outbreaks of infection with Trichinella spp. occur frequently throughout tile world sometimes resulting in fatalities. Th e clinical presentations of signs and symptoms are remarkably constant for most of the species of Trichinella, but in infections with Trichi nella nativa and Trichinella britovi, classical symptoms of trichinell osis may be absent. It is important to be able to correlate the clinic al presentation of trichinellosis with the life cycle of these helmint hs in order to make an accurate diagnosis. Knowledge of the epidemiolo gy of the disease enables the physician to identify other potential ca ses, since most epidemics carl be traced back to a common source of ra w or undercooked meat. A comprehensive summary relating the most impor tant clinical variables is presented graphically for easy reference to the text. Symptoms and signs are considered in relation to severity o f infection. Laboratory findings and diagnostic techniques, including new modalities (e.g., DNA and antigen detection), are discussed. A dis cussion of treatment and preventive measures concludes our review.