II. Epidemiology
- Occasionally seen in toddlers
III. Cause
- Dog or cat Tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum)
IV. Transmission
- Tapeworm carried by fleas
- Dogs and cats swallow adult fleas and acquire Tapeworm
- Child accidentally swallows flea while playing with pet
V. Symptoms
- Usually asymptomatic
VI. Signs
- Motile worm segments (proglottids) on stool or perianal
- Appear as cucumber seeds when fresh
- Appear as rice grains when dry
VII. Management
- Praziquantel (Biltricide) 5-10 mg/kg for 1 dose
VIII. Prevention
- Flea control
- Regular worming of pets