5 Facts you should know about

Cysticercosis

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Taenia solium, primarily affecting the central nervous system, muscles, and other tissues

It occurs when humans ingest T. solium eggs from contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected individuals, leading to the formation of cysts in various body tissues

Symptoms depend on the cysts' location and may include neurological manifestations like seizures, headaches, confusion, and focal neurological deficits, or muscle pain and swelling

Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, serological tests, and occasionally biopsy to identify cysts or confirm the presence of T. solium antigens

Treatment aims to manage symptoms and eliminate the parasite with medications like albendazole or praziquantel, often combined with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the brain

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