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[Taenia crassiceps infection in AIDS]
H Klinker1, K Tintelnot, R Joeres
1Medizinische Klinik, Universität Würzburg.
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|January 24, 1992
Summary
A rare case of cysticercosis caused by Taenia crassiceps tapeworm larvae occurred in an AIDS patient. Prompt treatment with mebendazole and praziquantel led to successful resolution and regression of the infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunocompromised Hosts
Background:
- Human cysticercosis is typically caused by Taenia solium, but other Taenia species can cause larval infections.
- Patients with advanced Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection are susceptible to opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A subcutaneous paravertebral infiltrate developed in a 33-year-old patient with AIDS, initially mimicking a hematoma.
- The lesion progressively enlarged, causing bleeding and a deficiency in clotting factor V.
- Rupture of the infiltrate revealed Cysticerci longicolles, the larval form of Taenia crassiceps.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with cysticercosis due to Taenia crassiceps larval infection.
- Treatment with mebendazole and praziquantel resulted in the regression of the infiltrate and normalization of clotting factors.
- A recurrence was successfully treated with a repeat course of the same medication.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for zoonotic tapeworm larvae to cause significant disease in immunocompromised individuals.
- Early diagnosis and combination antiparasitic therapy are crucial for managing such rare infections.
- The findings underscore the importance of considering unusual parasitic infections in patients with advanced HIV.