Recent developments in the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of Fasciola infection.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims at describing the latest research in Fasciola epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and control in endemic countries.

RECENT FINDINGS: The geographic distribution and range of reservoirs for Fasciola hepatica continues to expand. The impact of fascioliasis goes beyond human disease to affect food security and income in developed and developing countries. Promising serologic and molecular methods to diagnose fascioliasis have been described, but are not widely available. Triclabendazole remains the only highly active medication to treat human and livestock infected with juvenile and adult forms of Fasciola spp. Efforts to control fascioliasis may be hindered by the emergence of resistance to triclabendazole among livestock and subsequently in humans.

SUMMARY: Increased awareness and surveillance are likely to uncover the real distribution and burden of fascioliasis in human. Research into new drugs or adjuvants to tackle the emerging resistance to triclabendazole is imperative to treat and control Fasciola infection.