A man from San Francisco, California was hospitalized with severe migraines, only to discover that parasitic tapeworm larvae in his brain were the cause. Researchers believe that the infection was a result of consuming undercooked bacon, according to a recent study published in the American Journal of Case Reports.
The 52-year-old patient sought medical help after experiencing worsening migraines over a period of four months. Despite trying various medications, his headaches became more frequent and intense, prompting further investigation.
Hospital tests, including CT scans, revealed multiple fluid-filled sacs, known as cystic foci, in the patient’s brain. Positive antibody tests confirmed a diagnosis of neurocysticercosis, a form of parasitic infection caused by larval cysts of the pork tapeworm.
Neurocysticercosis is typically contracted through ingesting larval cysts found in infected feces, often due to poor hygiene practices. In this case, the patient’s affinity for undercooked bacon was identified as the likely source of infection.
The man underwent successful treatment with anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory medications, leading to regression of the brain lesions and an improvement in his migraine symptoms. While neurocysticercosis is rare in the United States, this case highlights the importance of food safety and proper sanitation practices.
Symptoms of neurocysticercosis can vary from headaches to seizures, depending on the extent of infection in the brain. The disease can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated, underscoring the need for awareness and preventive measures.