Most infections are asymptomatic. Manifestations may include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. Vitamin B 12 deficiency with pernicious anemia may occur. Massive infections may result in intestinal obstruction. Migration of proglottids can cause cholecystitis or cholangitis.
Eggs are usually numerous and can be demonstrated without concentration techniques.
Examination of proglottids passed in the stool is also of diagnostic value. Parenteral administration of vitamin B 12 may be needed to correct deficiency. See recommendations in The Medical Letter for complete information. This drug is approved by the FDA, but considered investigational for this purpose.