Bertiella is a cestode that causes a zoonosis. Humans can become infected after contact with infected reptile or animal.
Family: Anoplocephalidae
Genus: Bertiella
Species: B. mucronata, B. studeri
Infections can occur around the world, with most cases reported from Africa or South America.
Transmission: ingestion of contaminated mites (intermediate host), where the cysticercoid larvae develop
Humans are usually exposed by:
(1) ingestion of contaminated food or water.
(2) contact with infected animals, such as non-human primates
(3) contact with contaminated soil
The larvae are ingested and develop into adults in the small intestine. Adults can reach 40 cm in length. The scolex shows unarmed rostellum and 4 oval suckers.
The stool contains spherical eggs measuring 35-55 microns in diameter. Eggs show hooklets and a pyriform apparatus.
Infected humans may be asymptomatic, or they may develop weight loss, anorexia, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
