The Liver’s hidden foe: A case study on Human Fasciolasis

Abstract

Human fascioliasis, caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciolagigantica, is a neglected tropical disease of increasing public health significance. Reported cases are rare, with only one serologically confirmed instance in Ethiopia to date. We present the case of a male patient in his late twenties, without identified risk factors, who presented with bilateral upper quadrant pain persisting for a year and a history of repeated treatment for H. pylori gastritis. Initial ultrasound findings prompted further investigation with abdominal CT, contrast-enhanced MRI, and MRCP, leading to a diagnostic shift confirmed by a positive enzyme-linked assay for Fasciola hepatica. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and the critical role of radiological imaging—ultrasound, CT, and MRIin identifying key features such as biliary dilation and parenchymal abnormalities, crucial for early detection and effective management of human fascioliasis.

Keywords

• Human fascioliasis
• Fasciolahepatica
• Liver fluke
• Ethiopia