Clonorchis

sinensis Clonorchis sinensis, commonly known as the Chinese liver fluke, is a parasitic flatworm that lives in the human bile duct and causes the disease clonorchiasis. It is endemic in Southeast Asia and is a major health problem in China, Taiwan, Korea, and Vietnam. Clonorchis sinensis infection is acquired primarily through the consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish or other aquatic animals such as shrimp and frogs. Once ingested, the parasite eggs develop into larvae, which migrate to the bile ducts, where they mature and lay eggs. This can lead to inflammation, obstruction of the bile ducts, and other serious complications. Treatment of clonorchiasis involves medications to kill off the parasite and relieve symptoms. Prevention of infection is best achieved by avoiding the ingestion of raw or undercooked aquatic animals.