September 12, 2024

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Undercooked Pork Linked to Parasitic Tapeworm Infection

Undercooked Pork Linked to Parasitic Tapeworm Infection



Undercooked Pork Linked to Parasitic Tapeworm Infection

A case of parasitic infection from eating undercooked pork was highlighted by a U.S. researcher, who shared a patient’s CT images to raise awareness.

On August 28, the British Daily Mail reported that Dr. Sam Ghali of the University of Florida recently posted CT images of a patient infected with Cysticercosis, a parasitic infection, on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He also provided details about the case.

Cysticercosis is a condition caused by the larvae of tapeworms that can infest muscles and the brain. Infection typically occurs from consuming meat that has not been cooked thoroughly or from ingesting food contaminated with parasitic larvae.

Once inside the body, the larvae mature into adult worms in the stomach or intestines over a period of 5 to 12 weeks, after which they can migrate to other tissues. Calcified cysts or lesions may form under the skin, presenting as lumps that can be detected through imaging.

 

Undercooked Pork Linked to Parasitic Tapeworm Infection

 

On X-ray images, these cysts appear as white, oval, rice grain-like shapes. The CT images shared by Dr. Ghali showed white, oval cysts spread across the patient’s thigh bones and beneath the knee joints.

Dr. Ghali explained, “The larvae leave the intestines and spread throughout the body via the bloodstream. The brain, eyes, subcutaneous tissue, and skeletal muscles are common targets. When cysts enter the brain, they can cause symptoms such as headaches and seizures. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the cysts.”

He also warned that Cysticercosis can be contracted not only orally but also through contact with fecal matter. Infection can occur if an infected person uses the toilet and then fails to wash their hands properly before eating with others, or by drinking water contaminated with fecal matter.

While most people recover with treatment, Dr. Ghali noted that Cysticercosis can sometimes lead to fatal outcomes. It is estimated that around 50 million people worldwide are infected each year, with approximately 50,000 deaths.

When Cysticercosis affects the brain, it can cause additional symptoms such as confusion and dizziness. If it affects the eyes, it can lead to blurred vision and decreased eyesight, potentially causing severe eye conditions.

To prevent Cysticercosis, Dr. Ghali emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness, washing hands regularly, and avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked pork.

Undercooked Pork Linked to Parasitic Tapeworm Infection

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(source:internet, reference only)


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