What is the first line treatment for Trichinellosis?

The first line treatment for Trichinellosis is indeed Albendazole or Mebendazole, particularly in conjunction with corticosteroids for patients experiencing severe symptoms. This is due to the life cycle of the Trichinella parasite, which causes this disease through ingestion of undercooked meat containing encysted larvae.

Albendazole and Mebendazole are both effective anthelmintics that target the adult worms in the intestines, inhibiting their ability to absorb glucose, leading to their eventual death. The addition of corticosteroids is crucial in cases of severe trichinosis since it helps to reduce inflammatory responses that occur as the larvae migrate and encyst in host tissues, notably muscle. This combination addresses both the parasitic infection and the inflammatory complications that arise from it.

Other options like Praziquantel and Ivermectin are not effective for Trichinellosis since they target different parasites. Praziquantel is primarily used for cestode infections (tapeworms) and schistosomiasis, while Ivermectin is more often used for certain strongyloidiasis and ectoparasitic infections. Diethylcarbamazine is typically used for filarial infections. Therefore, these alternatives do not