Opisthorchis felineus

Opisthorchis felineus, or cat liver fluke is a trematode parasite that infects the liver in mammals. It was first discovered in 1884 in a cat's liver by Sebastiano Rivolta of Italy. In 1891, Russian scientist K.N. Vinogradov found it in a human, and named the parasite a "Siberian liver fluke". In 1931, helminthologist Hans Vogel of Hamburg published a medical treatise describing the life cycle of Opisthorchis felineus .

The first "intermediate hosts" of the parasite are freshwater snails, the second "intermediate hosts" are freshwater fish, followed by the final host, which are fish-eating mammals such as felines and humans. It is estimated that 1.5 million people in Russia are infected with the parasite. Inhabitants of Siberia acquire the infection by consuming raw, slightly salted and frozen fish.

Opisthorchiasis, the disease caused by Opisthorchis felineus, ranges in severity from asymptomatic infection to severe illness. Patient outcome is dependent on early detection and treatment.

Human cases of opisthorchiasis may affect the liver, pancreas, and gall bladder. If not treated in the early stages, opisthorchiasis may cause cirrhosis of the liver and increased risk of liver cancer, but may be asymptomatic in children.

Two weeks after flukes enter the body, the parasites infect the biliary tract. Symptoms of infection include fever, general malaise, skin rash, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Severe anemia and liver damage may also incapacitate the infected person for 1-2 months.

Treatment of opisthorchiasis is generally with a single dose of praziquantel. 

Sources:
Opisthorchiasis felineus in Russia

ProMED mail: Opisthorchiasis, human - Russia (Vladimir)

ProMED mail: Opisthorchiasis, human - Russia (Chelyabinsk)

Katzenleberegel Opisthorchis felineus 貓肝吸蟲