Answer to Case 664

Answer to theParasite Case of the Week 664:Hymenolepis(Rodentolepis)nanascolex and egg.It is very unusual to see a scolex of H. nana; in my experience, it is usually only the proglottids that are removed when seen during colonoscopy. Therefore, it ' s a real treat to get to see the scolex in an actual clinical specimen! LikeTaenia soliumandDipylidium caninum, the scolex has an armed rostellum (i.e., protrusion with hooklets). The rostellum ofH. nanais generally smaller than that ofT. solium, and is often retracted. The presence of characteristicH. nanaeggs allows for definitive identification. Note the filaments emanating from each pole of the inner membrane.
Source: Creepy Dreadful Wonderful Parasites - Category: Parasitology Source Type: blogs