A 52-year-old man in the US, known for his history of consuming undercooked “soft” bacon, was diagnosed with tapeworm larva in his brain. The man, with a background of migraines, sought medical attention as his headaches intensified and became unresponsive to usual treatments.
Diagnostic Discovery
CT X-ray scans unveiled multiple cysts deep within his brain’s white matter, indicating neurocysticercosis. This condition arises when tapeworm cysts embed within the nervous system. Additional scans revealed cysts in different brain regions.
Tapeworm Transmission and Increased Frequency
Humans usually contract tapeworm cysts by ingesting contaminated water or food. This infection’s rising frequency in developed countries is attributed to increased global travel. Severity varies from asymptomatic to life-threatening, with seizures being a common symptom.
Unusual Case History
The man’s case stood out due to an “unremarkable” exposure history. Despite living in the US with no recent travel to endemic regions or contact with pigs, his habit of consuming undercooked bacon likely led to the tapeworm infection. Poor hand hygiene after using the bathroom might have contributed.
Treatment and Outcome
Treatment involved anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory drugs, resulting in the patient’s survival. The study emphasizes considering neurocysticercosis in diagnosing acute changes in migraines and highlights the importance of food safety and hygiene practices.
This unusual case underscores the need for awareness and preventive measures, even in developed countries, to address parasitic infections associated with dietary habits.
