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What is parasitic infections?
26 November 2025
Parasitic infections are a group of illnesses caused by microorganisms that can, in many cases, threaten the health and lives of those who suffer from them.
To better understand parasitic infections, it’s important to know that parasites are organisms that live off other living beings and the human body to feed and survive. They can be contracted through contaminated food or water, an insect bite, or sexual contact.
Parasites range in size from tiny single-celled organisms called protozoa to worms that can be seen with the naked eye. Malaria, giardiasis, and toxoplasmosis are some of the most common parasitic infections. Some are easier to treat than others.
Parasitic infections are classified as transmissible and non-transmissible, but all go through three stages:
- Incubation: The time between the entry of the pathogen and the appearance of the first symptoms. During this period, it can multiply and spread to different areas of the body. The incubation time varies depending on the pathogen responsible for the illness.
- Development: The emergence of symptoms characteristic of each infection.
- Convalescence: The infection subsides, and the body recovers.
Signs and symptoms Parasitic Infections
The symptoms depend on the pathogen causing the infection and the organs affected, but they generally include:
- Weakness
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Headache
- Aching muscles
- General malaise
- Vomiting
Diagnosis and treatment Parasitic Infections
In addition to performing a physical exam and reviewing the patient’s medical history, a doctor will conduct various tests to confirm the diagnosis of the specific parasitic infection. This usually includes:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Stool analysis
- Endoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- X-rays
- MRI
- CT scan
The treatment for parasitic infections depends on the causative agent, the severity of symptoms, the affected organs, and the person’s general health. Treatment often includes various oral and/or intravenous medications, dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and the adoption of good hygiene, among other therapies.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Department of Internal Medicine, we provide high-quality, safe medical care, from prevention and diagnosis to timely treatment and follow-up for infectious, respiratory, endocrine, dermatological, rheumatic, nephrological, gastrointestinal, and hematological conditions. We treat both chronic and acute illnesses using a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach.
Related centers and departments Parasitic Infections
Fuentes:
- elsevier.es
- paho.org
- healthychildren.org
- mayoclinic.org
- medlineplus.gov
- msdmanuals.com
- medigraphic.com
- Puig PY, Leyva CV, Álvarez AD. Parásitos de transmisión alimentaria en Cuba: Una revisión de la literatura. RCAN. 2013;23(1):130-138.
- Núñez FFÁ, Hernández PSM, Ayllón VLL, et al. Hallazgos epidemiológicos en infecciones parasitarias intestinales de un grupo de niños ingresados por diarreas. Rev Cubana Med Trop. 2013;65(1):26-35.
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The dissemination of the content of this material is for informational purposes only and does not replace, under any circumstance or condition, a consultation with a specialist doctor, for which the ABC Medical Center is not responsible for the different use that may be given to it. If you require more information related to the subject, we suggest you contact the specialist doctor you trust directly.
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