Cysticerci

Cysticerci are the larval stage of the tapeworm species Taenia solium, commonly known as the pork tapeworm. They are a significant cause of cysticercosis, a parasitic tissue infection that can lead to serious health complications in humans.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Taenia solium begins when a human host ingests undercooked pork containing cysticerci. Once inside the host's intestine, the cysticerci develop into adult tapeworms. The adult tapeworms produce eggs, which are excreted in the host's feces. If these feces contaminate food or water sources, they can be ingested by pigs, completing the life cycle.

Cysticercosis

Cysticercosis is a disease caused by the ingestion of Taenia solium eggs. When the eggs hatch in the human intestine, the resulting larvae can migrate to various tissues in the body, forming cysts. These cysts can cause a range of symptoms, depending on their location. For example, cysts in the brain can lead to neurocysticercosis, a serious condition that can cause seizures and other neurological symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of cysticercosis is typically made through a combination of clinical history, imaging studies such as CT or MRI, and serological testing. Treatment usually involves a combination of anti-parasitic drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, surgical removal of cysts.

Prevention

Prevention of cysticercosis involves proper cooking of pork to kill cysticerci, as well as good hygiene practices to prevent fecal contamination of food and water sources. In some areas, pigs are also vaccinated against Taenia solium to reduce the risk of transmission.

See Also

• Taenia solium
• Cysticercosis
• Neurocysticercosis