Kystiserkoosi

Kystiserkoosi is a parasitic tissue infection caused by the larval cysts of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. Humans become infected by ingesting tapeworm eggs, which are typically found in the feces of individuals harboring the adult tapeworm in their intestines. This can occur through contaminated food or water, or by poor hygiene practices.

Once ingested, the eggs hatch in the small intestine, and the larvae (oncospheres) penetrate the intestinal wall and travel through the bloodstream to various tissues. They can then develop into cysts, known as cysticerci, in muscles, eyes, and most significantly, the brain. When cysticerci develop in the central nervous system, the condition is called neurocysticercosis, which is the most serious form of the disease and a major cause of epilepsy worldwide, particularly in endemic regions.

Symptoms of kystiserkoosi vary depending on the location and number of cysts. Muscular kystiserkoosi is often asymptomatic or causes muscle pain and weakness. Ocular kystiserkoosi can lead to vision problems. Neurocysticercosis can manifest with a wide range of neurological symptoms, including seizures, headaches, confusion, and neurological deficits. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques such as CT scans or MRI, and sometimes serological tests. Treatment depends on the location and number of cysts and may involve antiparasitic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, or surgery. Prevention relies on proper food hygiene, sanitation, and avoiding consumption of undercooked pork.