Parasite and Host

The Interplay Between Tapeworm Infections, Immunity, and Nutrient Uptake

Abstract

Cestodes, otherwise called tapeworms, are white parasitic worms that can grow up to great lengths within the intestines or stomach of their hosts, which can also range from people to animals like dogs. There are many causes of tapeworm infections, primarily having to do with poor hygiene. Usually, hosts are infiltrated when they eat raw meat or fish containing eggs or larvae, drink dirty water, or come into contact with excrement or places that are unhygienic and contaminated. These are the most common ways of infection. Once infected, the tapeworm will attach to the intestines, eating the food that its host eats, which can cause discomfort. Additionally, tapeworms will also affect the host's immune system, which may cause further concern. In this paper, we will examine how tapeworm infections affect the host's immune system and nutrient absorption.