Symptoms of Clonorchiasis

Clonorchiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the liver fluke *Clonorchis sinensis*, which resides in the intrahepatic bile ducts of humans. Its main symptoms include lethargy, dull upper abdominal pain, diarrhea, hepatomegaly, and jaundice. A detailed analysis follows:

1. Lethargy: Patients commonly experience mental fatigue, reduced vitality, and easy exhaustion—primarily due to nutrient depletion and impaired bodily functions resulting from parasitic infestation.

2. Dull upper abdominal pain: Most patients report persistent or intermittent dull pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. This pain may arise from parasite activity or associated inflammation within the intrahepatic bile ducts.

3. Diarrhea: Some patients develop diarrhea, characterized by increased bowel movement frequency and loose stools. This may result from compromised hepatic detoxification function and direct irritation of the intestinal mucosa by the parasites.

4. Hepatomegaly: In some cases, an enlarged liver can be palpated—particularly enlargement of the left lobe—with an irregular surface, tenderness on palpation, and percussion tenderness. This reflects direct parasitic colonization and proliferation within the intrahepatic bile ducts.

5. Jaundice: In severe infections—or when numerous adult worms obstruct the common bile duct—obstructive jaundice may occur, manifesting as yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera, and darkened urine.

If clonorchiasis is diagnosed, treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as albendazole tablets, praziquantel tablets, and hepatoprotective tablets (e.g., “Hugan Pian”). To prevent clonorchiasis, avoid consuming raw or undercooked freshwater fish or shrimp—foods potentially harboring *C. sinensis* metacercariae.