Cestode Infection Paper

Cestode infection can be diagnosed conventionally through physical examination by the presence of segments in the anus of an infected animal (Fox, 2010; Schoenian, 2013; Smith & Sherman, 2009; Soulsby, 1982), or existence of mature segments in their excrement (Urquhart et al., 1985). These proglottids looks like cooked rice grains (Soulsby, 1982).

Fecal flotation segregates the fecal debris and the eggs which float to the top when emulsified in liquids with high specific gravity through standing or centrifugation (Kaufmann, 1996). Flotation principle is generally useful in finding cestode and nematode eggs, as well as protozoan cysts (Roberts & Janovy, 1996). This test can see the eggs when viewed under the microscope; however, this test is not definitive (Schoenian, 2013).

Determination of parasitic eggs are possible by the examination of thin smear of feces which is emulsified. However, this is only efficient if the concentration is high and there is difficulty in identifying the eggs due to the debris present (Kaufmann, 1996). This examination suited when rapid examination is needed (Soulsby, 1982). Roberts and Janovy (1996), affirmed that negative results are inconclusive, however those that are positive are as credible as those that gathered in concentration techniques that are

Examples of nonchemical medications used to kill adult tapeworms are pumpkin seeds, powdered areca, kousso, turpentine, pomegranate root bark, and male fern (Schoenian, 2013). In the Philippines, local plants used are watermelon seeds which is very specific for tapeworms, custard apple, makabuhay, kamachili, kakawate, aludig and jackfruit which are broadly against common intestinal worms (Mateo cited in International Livestock Research Institute-International Fund for Agricultural Development-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development,