how can we differentiate between T.saginata(Beef) and T.solium (Pork)
- The eggs of these two species cannot be differentiated, If differentiation is required, an examination of a gravid proglottid is needed.
- Using Zhiel-Nelson Stain might help sometimes in general the eggs of T. saginata are slightly larger, T. saginata eggs are always ovoid while T. solium eggs were spheric but it’s not always the case, we should examine the gravid proglottid.
Comparing the gravid proglottid is the best practice:
- Count the number of lateral uterine branches on one side of the main branch.
- Taenia saginata has approx. 15 – 20 branches and T. solium 7 – 13. See diagram below.