Cysticercosis
Definition Cysticercosis is an infection that creates cysts in different areas in the body. The infection is caused by a parasite called Taenia solium (the pork tapeworm). If these worms are found in the intestine, they cause a different disease that is called teniasis.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Cysticercosis is caused by swallowing eggs from T. solium, which are found in contaminated food. Autoinfection, where a person already infected with adult T. solium swallows eggs following improper hand washing after a bowel movement, can also occur.
This organism can cause seizures, eye infections, spine infections, and other complications but most often, the worms remain in muscle and do not cause symptoms.
Risk factors include living in developing areas and eating pork, fruits, and vegetables contaminated with T. solium. The disease can also be spread by contact with infected people or fecal matter. The disease is rare in the US but common in much of the rest of the world.
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