Solitary sternocleidomastoid mass revealing cysticercosis: A case report

Isolated intramuscular cysticercosis is rare, with only a few case reports in the literature. Cysticercosis is a parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium. It affects a variety of tissues, the most prevalent of which is neurocysticercosis. This article gives a thorough discussion of the clinico-radiological characteristics and management of isolated intramuscular cysticercosis, a critical but underappreciated presentation, particularly in poorer countries where the disease is more common. Because of their lack of symptoms and rarity, isolated muscle cysts can be difficult to diagnose. Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and blood testing are critical for distinguishing between comparable illnesses. Our patient was a 20-year-old man who sought therapy for a solitary swelling on the lateral border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle in his right neck that had been present for a month. Surgical removal and histological examination revealed a multilayered, lamellated cyst wall with a single invaginated scolex, rostellum, and hooklets, confirming the diagnosis of cysticercosis.