Taenia multiceps is a taeniid cestode that inhabits the small intestines of both wild and domestic carnivores. The larval stage, Coenurus cerebralis, is typically found in the central nervous system (CNS) of a wide range of livestock and, to a lesser extent, in the extra-cerebral tissues of sheep and goats. This review covers all aspects of the life cycle of T. multiceps and its epidemiology, molecular characterization, pathogenesis, diagnosis,
therapy, control and zoonotic potential.
Coenurosis caused by the larval stage of T. multiceps has a worldwide distribution and is often fatal in intermediate hosts, which can result in substantial economic losses in livestock farming. Molecular characterization using the mitochondrial genes
cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and
nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 1 of different T. multiceps populations has revealed significant genetic variation and the presence of three major haplotypes. The disease mostly affects young sheep and is referred to as either acute or chronic
coenurosis. Acute
coenurosis occurs as a result of oncospheres migrating through the CNS, while chronic
coenurosis occurs as a consequence of the coenurus maturing, which causes displacement and pressure
atrophy of brain tissue. Non-
cerebral coenurosis has been most commonly reported in goats. The best diagnostic method for
cerebral coenurosis involves the interpretation of clinical signs with accurate localization of the
cyst using diagnostic imaging techniques. A
vaccine based on recombinant oncosphere
antigens has proved to be an effective tool against T. multiceps
infection in sheep. Additionally, use of
anthelmintics during the parasite's migration stages reduces the development of
cysts in the sheep brain. Surgery is considered the most effective method for the treatment of
cerebral coenurosis in small ruminants, but is often not carried out because of the limited finances of many sheep and goat breeders. However,
coenurosis can also be controlled effectively through preventative measures, such as
anthelmintic treatment of dogs and the proper disposal of intermediate host carcasses. The parasite is also zoonotic, and cases of
coenurosis have been reported in humans with coenuri located in the brain, spinal cord and eyes.