Asymptomatic disseminated cysticercosis

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Cysticercosis is a widespread parasitic infection caused by tapeworm larvae.
• Disseminated cysticercosis, affecting multiple organs, is uncommon.
• Asymptomatic disseminated cysticercosis is exceptionally rare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of asymptomatic disseminated cysticercosis.
• To highlight the extensive organ involvement in this unique case.
• To contribute to the literature on rare presentations of cysticercosis.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a young Nigerian male presenting with dysphagia.
• Diagnostic workup including imaging and clinical evaluation.
• Review of literature for similar rare cases.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with dysphagia, diagnosed as achalasia cardia.
• Disseminated cysticercosis was identified, involving the brain, face, orbit, lungs, heart, pancreas, and spleen.
• The patient remained asymptomatic regarding the cysticercosis despite widespread dissemination.
• Pancreatic and splenic involvement were noted as extremely rare findings.

Conclusions:

• This case represents an exceptionally rare instance of asymptomatic disseminated cysticercosis.
• The extensive organ involvement, including pancreas and spleen, underscores the varied clinical spectrum of the disease.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind asymptomatic presentation in disseminated cysticercosis.