The clinical severity of trichinosis may vary from asymptomatic to severe. The severity correlates with the risk for complications.
Clinical Group
Fever
Other Clinical Findings
asymptomatic
none
none
abortive
none or slight
symptoms slight and last only a few days
mild
fever for up to 1 week and not exceeding 38°C
patient in good condition; patient does not need to remain in bed; transient periocular edema; weak muscle pains; may have an intense symptom but only for 1-2 days
moderate
fever for up to 2 weeks and not exceeding 38.5°C
some symptoms may be severe; patient may be in bed for a week or more; recovery rapid after temperature returns to normal; complications absent, mild or short lasting
severe
fever over 39°C for more than 2 weeks
physical complaints marked; may be in bed for 3 weeks or longer; severe headaches and myalgias; cardiovascular complaints; hypoalbuminemia with peripheral edema; respiratory, nervous, renal and hepatic complications; prolonged convalescence
Laboratory Findings:
(1) positive serologic tests (seroconversion, appropriate change in titer)
(2) eosinophilia
(3) positive muscle biopsy
(4) hypoalbuminemia (in moderate to severe cases)
(5) elevation in serum CK levels
Limitations:
• A person with marked allergic reaction to the larvae may have pronounced symptoms but recover with no complications.
• Treatment with corticosteroids may lessen the severity in symptoms.
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