Taenia solium

Definition

Taenia solium is a parasitic tapeworm primarily found in pigs and humans. It can cause neurocysticercosis, a serious nervous system infection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Taenia solium can lead to cysticercosis when humans ingest eggs from contaminated food or water.
2. Neurocysticercosis occurs when larvae invade the central nervous system, causing seizures and other neurological symptoms.
3. Humans are both the definitive host (harboring adult worms) and an intermediate host (harboring larvae).
4. Diagnosis often involves imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans to identify cysts in the brain.
5. Treatment includes antiparasitic medications like albendazole, along with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Review Questions

• How does Taenia solium cause neurocysticercosis?
• What are common diagnostic methods for detecting Taenia solium infections in the nervous system?
• Which medications are typically used to treat infections caused by Taenia solium?

Related terms

Cysticercosis: A tissue infection caused by Taenia solium larvae, leading to cyst formation in various organs.

Albendazole: An antiparasitic medication commonly used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms including Taenia solium.

Definitive Host: An organism that harbors the adult stage of a parasite.