Cestode: Pork Tapeworm

Question 1

Explain the life cycle of the Pork Tapeworm

Answer 1

• Cystecerci infection similar to beef
• If EGGS are consumed by human from fecal contamination or proglottids, the oncospheres (embryo) hatch and penetrate intestinal wall, bloodstream, brain, eye, muscle
• disseminated infection with cyctercerci

Question 2

What are the clinical manifestations of Pork Tapeworm?

Answer 2

• Intestinal infection
• Asymptomatic
• Cysticercosis
  Disseminated infection “Neurocysticercosis”
• seizures, paresis, mental deterioration, meningitis
• Think of this in patients with neuro s/s from endemic areas.

Question 3

What regions are endemic to Pork Tapeworm?

Answer 3

Mexico, Central/South America, Africa, SE Asia, India, Philippines, Southern Europe

Question 4

How do you diagnose Pork Tapeworm?

Answer 4

• Stool exam! - look for immotile eggs/proglottids
• Radiologic evidence of disseminated cysts (MRI)
• Serology

Question 5

How do you treat Pork Tapeworm?

Answer 5

Look it up and punt!

Question 6

How do you prevent Pork Tapeworm? (4)

Answer 6

• Protect pigs from infected human feces (good sanitation)
• Cook pork well or freeze
• Personal hygiene/sanitation
• Rx adult worm infections (despite being asymptomatic) to prevent spread/infection