Work

Fasciolosis in a traveler returning from Burkina Faso

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Human distomatoses may be caused by several genera of trematodes, including Fasciola spp., responsible for cosmopolitan fasciolosis. Once widespread in Western Europe, the prevalence of these parasitoses has significantly declined in the last decades. The rarity of these infections may result in overlooking such etiologies. Nevertheless, imported cases are still being diagnosed, notably among migrants and travelers returning from endemic areas. Laboratory assays used for confirmation require different techniques, which exhibit various sensitivities and specificities, thus requiring expertise. In this context, diagnosis of fasciolosis can be challenging, particularly in primary care settings. We present a case of hepatic fasciolosis, likely acquired in Burkina Faso, in a traveler for whom several months elapsed before etiological diagnosis was made. Given the important number of patients visiting endemic areas, and recent migratory movements, the incidence of human imported distomatosis may increase in metropolitan France in the near future. • Human fasciolosis is a zoonotic trematodosis with a global distribution. • Autochtonous infections are nowadays rare in Europe but travelers may be at risk. • Clinical suspicion should arise in eosinophilia, prompting appropriate testing. • Treatment relies on administration of triclabendazole in two separate doses.

Source: Food and Waterborne Parasitology

DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2026.e00319

Authors: Laurencie Massamba, Jean Testa, Pierre Marty, Jacques Sevestre