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Medical Definition of Bothriocephaliasis
1. An infection caused by the fish tapeworm, Diphyllobothrium latum, one of the giant tapeworm species. Humans may get infected after eating undercooked fish that contain tapeworm larvae. Fish tapeworms are more common in cold, fresh water lakes such as the Great Lakes area. The adult worm grows in the intestine to lengths up to 30 feet. Segments of the worm and blood may occasionally be passed in the stools. Infection can also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. Diagnosis is via microscopic examination of the stools. Treatment is with single dose niclosamide. (27 Sep 1997)