Lingual cysticercosis.

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Medical Mycology
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Cysticercosis is caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm, *Taenia solium*.
• While human infection is possible, it is uncommon, and oral cavity involvement is exceptionally rare.
• The parasite typically develops in muscle and central nervous system tissues.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old boy presented with a painless, solitary, nodular swelling on the posterior dorsal tongue.
• The swelling had a pearly white appearance and had been present for three months.
• No other sites of infection were noted in the patient.

Findings:

• Excision biopsy of the lingual swelling was performed.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of *Cysticercus cellulosae* within the tongue muscles.
• This diagnosis established lingual cysticercosis as the cause of the lesion.

Implications:

• This case underscores the possibility of isolated lingual cysticercosis, even without systemic involvement.
• Early diagnosis and surgical excision are crucial for managing localized parasitic infections.
• Awareness among clinicians is important for recognizing rare presentations of cysticercosis in the oral cavity.