Question

How do humans usually contract neurocysticercosis? a. the bite of an infected arthropod b. exposure to contaminated cat feces c. Swimming in contaminated water d. ingestion of undercooked pork

Short answer

Humans usually contract neurocysticercosis by d. ingestion of undercooked pork.

Step-by-step solution

Understand what neurocysticercosis is

Neurocysticercosis is an infection of the nervous system by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium.

Determine the transmission method of Taenia solium

Humans contract neurocysticercosis through the ingestion of food or water that has been contaminated with the eggs of Taenia solium shed in the feces of someone with an intestinal tapeworm.

Match the transmission method with the given options

Since humans contract neurocysticercosis via ingestion of the pork tapeworm eggs, the closest match is the ingestion of undercooked pork, which can contain the larval cysts.

Key concepts

Taenia solium infection

Taenia solium, commonly known as the pork tapeworm, presents a considerable health challenge across the globe, especially in regions where pork is a dietary staple. The infection begins when cysticerci, which are the larval form of the tapeworm, are ingested by humans. This usually occurs through consuming undercooked or contaminated pork that contains these cysticerci. Once inside the human body, the larvae can travel through the bloodstream and establish infections in various tissues, including the brain. When they reach the brain, the condition is referred to as neurocysticercosis.

Neurocysticercosis can cause neurological symptoms, including seizures, headaches, and even psychiatric disturbances, due to the larval cysts inducing inflammation and disrupting normal brain function. This aspect of Taenia solium infection underscores the importance of proper meat preparation and maintaining good hygiene to prevent transmission.

Ingestion of undercooked pork

The ingestion of undercooked pork is the primary route by which humans can contract Taenia solium infection, leading to neurocysticercosis. It's critical to understand that while the pork itself may not be inherently dangerous, the improper cooking of pork contaminated with larval cysts of the parasite is where the risk emerges. These cysts can survive in undercooked pork, and when consumed, they can take up residence in the human body.

Prevention is key, and it includes thoroughly cooking pork to safe temperatures, which helps ensure that any cysts present are killed. Food safety techniques, such as using different cutting boards for raw meat and other foods as well as washing hands and surfaces regularly, can further reduce the risk of transmission. Educating the public on these methods is crucial in disease prevention efforts.

Parasitic infections in humans

Parasitic infections in humans, such as those caused by Taenia solium, are a significant public health issue. Many parasitic infections are transmitted through contaminated food or water, reflecting the importance of sanitation and clean food preparation practices. In the case of neurocysticercosis, the life cycle of the parasite includes both humans and pigs, with humans as the definitive host where the adult tapeworm lives in the intestines, and pigs often as the intermediate host where larvae develop. However, humans can also become an accidental intermediate host if tapeworm eggs are ingested, leading to the development of cysticerci in tissues.

Other common parasitic infections include those caused by protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites, each presenting unique challenges and transmission methods. Public health measures, personal hygiene, and education play critical roles in combating these infections. For those traveling to or living in areas with high incidence of parasitic diseases, precautions such as drinking purified water and avoiding raw or undercooked food are vital.