"This is a rare case, demonstrating the persistent presence of parasites in the body with few symptoms," said Master, Resident Doctor Vu Thi Ngoc Bich from the Institute of Gastroenterology, on 13/10.

Dr. Bich and her team used an endoscope to remove a 70 cm segment of the tapeworm. The specimen was then sent to the Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences, which confirmed it was a beef tapeworm (Taenia saginata).

Following the procedure, the patient was transferred to the Tropical Diseases and Hepatitis Clinic for evaluation and specific treatment.

Dr. Bich stated that individuals infected with beef tapeworms often experience few or no obvious symptoms. Therefore, the parasite can persist in the digestive tract without the patient's knowledge. The 70 cm segment removed did not completely eliminate the parasite. The tapeworm's head might still be attached to the small intestine, continuing to grow if not thoroughly treated. Patients require specific medication as prescribed by a doctor and must attend follow-up appointments.

Beef tapeworms are primarily transmitted to humans through consuming raw or undercooked beef containing larvae. Once inside the body, the larvae develop into adult worms in the small intestine. Dishes like "bo tai" (rare beef), "bo nhung tai" (rare beef hotpot), "goi bo" (beef salad), or any undercooked beef pose a potential risk if the ingredients are contaminated with larvae.

A doctor performs an endoscopy on a patient. *Kim Long*

Most individuals infected with beef tapeworms do not show obvious symptoms. Some cases experience abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or unexplained weight loss. A more easily recognizable sign is the presence of white tapeworm segments (proglottids) in stool, on clothing, or emerging spontaneously from the anus.

In some rare instances, tapeworm segments can cause complications such as appendicitis or migration into the bile ducts or pancreatic duct.

Diagnosis of beef tapeworms typically relies on stool tests to find eggs or proglottids. Examining proglottid samples helps identify the species. Praziquantel is one of the medications used to treat the infection; however, infected individuals must be evaluated by a doctor and prescribed appropriate medication, rather than self-medicating.

To prevent the disease, doctors recommend thoroughly cooking beef and avoiding raw or undercooked beef. Choose food products from reputable sources, ensure hygiene during preparation, and wash hands after handling raw meat. Individuals who discover white tapeworm segments in their stool or have suspicious symptoms should seek medical attention for examination.

Le Nga