Lihakonsisäiset

Lihakonsisäiset, a Finnish term, translates to "meat inside muscles" and refers to parasitic worms, primarily tapeworms, that encyst within the muscle tissue of animals. This condition is a zoonotic concern, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans through the consumption of undercooked or raw infected meat.

The most well-known example is cysticercosis, caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium). When humans ingest tapeworm eggs, typically from contaminated food or water, the larvae can migrate to various tissues, including muscles, where they form cysticerci. In pigs, infection usually occurs by consuming tapeworm eggs shed by an infected human. The larvae then develop in their muscles, forming palpable nodules.

Symptoms in animals can vary, and some may show no outward signs of infection. In humans, the severity of illness depends on the location and number of cysticerci. Muscle cysticercosis can cause pain and weakness, while neurocysticercosis, where larvae infect the brain, is a serious condition leading to seizures and other neurological problems.

Diagnosis in animals often involves post-mortem examination of muscle tissue. In humans, diagnosis may involve imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans, as well as serological tests to detect antibodies against the parasite.

Prevention is key and relies on proper food safety practices. Thoroughly cooking meat, especially pork, kills any existing parasite larvae. Maintaining good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, also helps prevent the spread of tapeworm eggs. In livestock management, controlling tapeworm infections in pigs through deworming and hygienic practices is crucial to break the transmission cycle.