Fasciola hepatica is the trematode responsible for liver fluke infection in humans. It primarily targets the liver and bile ducts, causing inflammation, biliary obstruction, and hepatic tissue damage. Infection occurs through ingestion of contaminated watercress or aquatic plants harboring metacercariae. Clinically, fascioliasis presents with fever, hepatomegaly, right upper quadrant pain, and eosinophilia. Fasciola hepatica differs from other trematodes by its distinct lifecycle involving freshwater snails and aquatic vegetation. Effective diagnosis often requires serology or detection of eggs in stool. Early treatment is essential to prevent severe hepatic complications.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, Kasper et al., 20th Edition.