Kauvery Kathaigal : 2
Life Turned Upside Down by a Common Garden Worm
Patient: Life turned upside down for the 15 yrs aged boy in two days’ time
Condition: Headache for two days, giddiness, and a fall.
Patient's Story
A 15-year-old boy experienced severe headache for two days, followed by giddiness and a fall. A scan revealed a large brain tumor that doctors suspected to be malignant. However, at surgery, it was found to be degenerating cysts from the parasitic tape worm Taenia Solium, larvae of which can migrate from the intestine to the brain. The infestation is acquired from leafy vegetables like cabbage or lettuce contaminated by feces of infected pig. Neuro Cysticercosis can mimic epilepsy by provoking seizures.
Outcome
The cystic tumor was successfully removed. The boy received antiparasitic drugs and supportive medications towards full recovery.
Conclusion
The brain tumor scare was not caused by malignancy or a virus but by Taenia Solium, a pork tape worm.
Wash all leafy vegetables thoroughly before eating, because even a clean-looking salad may be contaminated.
