Abstract

Introduction

Fasciola hepatica infection (fascioliasis) is an uncommon zoonotic parasitic disease in humans that primarily involves the hepatobiliary system. It may present with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from obstructive jaundice and cholangitis to chronic biliary inflammation and cirrhosis. This study aimed to describe the clinical, laboratory, and radiological characteristics of fascioliasis cases diagnosed over a five-year period in a tertiary care center and to highlight its relevance in differential diagnosis.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of adult patients diagnosed with Fasciola hepatica infection between 2020 and 2025 at Elazığ Fethi Sekin City Hospital. Hospital records, electronic files, and discharge summaries were examined. Clinical presentations, laboratory parameters, and radiological findings at initial admission and at one-month follow-up were evaluated. Analyses were performed using SPSS version 25, and appropriate statistical tests were applied according to data distribution.

Results

Twenty-six patients met the inclusion criteria (mean age: 51 ± 10.93 years; 73% female). Most patients lived in rural areas (61.5%). Abdominal pain was reported in 50% of cases, and peripheral eosinophilia was documented in all patients. Ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging frequently suggested malignancy (69.2%); however, these lesions regressed after treatment with triclabendazole. Significant reductions were observed in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), eosinophil percentage, and leukocyte count, while serum albumin levels increased after treatment (p < 0.001). Stool microscopy was performed in two patients but failed to detect parasitic eggs.

Conclusion

Fascioliasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hepatic lesions, particularly in patients from rural settings who present with eosinophilia and abdominal pain. Early diagnosis can be achieved through a combination of serology, imaging modalities, and strong clinical suspicion. ALP, LDH, and eosinophil levels are valuable, non-invasive indicators for monitoring treatment response.