Clonorchis sinensis, commonly known as the Chinese liver fluke, is a parasitic flatworm that causes clonorchiasis, an infection of the liver, bile ducts, and gallbladder. This parasite is most prevalent in East Asia, particularly in countries such as China, Korea, and Vietnam, where raw or undercooked freshwater fish is commonly consumed.
Humans become infected by eating contaminated fish containing the cysts (metacercariae) of the parasite. Once ingested, the cysts release larvae, which migrate to the bile ducts in the liver where they mature into adult flukes. These flukes can live in the human body for decades, causing damage to the bile ducts.
Clonorchiasis may initially cause mild or no symptoms, but chronic infection can lead to abdominal pain, fatigue, indigestion, and diarrhea. Long-term complications include bile duct inflammation, bile duct stones, and an increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma, a type of bile duct cancer.
Treatment for clonorchiasis typically involves praziquantel or albendazole, which are effective in killing the parasites. Preventive measures include avoiding raw or undercooked freshwater fish and improving sanitation in areas where the parasite is endemic.
