Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis: From parasite biology and immunology to diagnosis and control

Correlation of serum screening and neuroimaging studies: A comparative analysis for diagnostic evaluation of neurocysticercosis among people with epilepsy attending mental health clinics in selected district hospitals of Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Involvement of Taenia solium cysts in the nervous system (Neurocysticercosis -NCC), is responsible for about 30% of preventable acquired epilepsy among people with epilepsy in endemic areas. The diagnosis of NCC involves a set of criteria including immunodiagnostics and neuroimaging. The gold standard immunodiagnostics is not clearly established and the available tests are commercial and not commonly practiced in our settings. We conducted this study to establish the correlation between serum cysticercosis screening tests and neuroimaging studies in the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis among people with epilepsy attending mental health clinics in endemic areas of Tanzania.

METHODS

We evaluated the serum cysticercosis diagnostic tests through parallel tests and performed multiple analysis methods including sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio (LR+, LR-). Others were positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve. These were done to establish the efficiency of serum cysticercosis tests in the diagnosis of NCC.

RESULTS

Our findings showed a sensitivity of 87.5%; [95%CI (76.7-98.3)] and specificity of 60.7%; [95%CI (44.8-76.7)]. The LR+ = 2.23 and LR- = 0.21. The PPV was 38.9% [95%CI (23.0-54.8)], NPV was 94.4%; [95%CI (87.0-101.9)] and area under the ROC curve was 0.78.

DISCUSSION

Increasing sensitivity and decreasing false negatives, parallel testing of multiple serum cysticercosis diagnostic tests enhances negative predictive values. It is important to assess the diagnostic tests using a variety of analytical techniques to confirm that they are capable of producing the desired diagnosis.

Phylogenetic characterization of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium in Japan: implications for the enigmatic evolutionary history

Taenia solium is a tapeworm of the family Taeniidae that causes neurocysticercosis, a serious zoonotic disease in humans. Its life cycle involves pigs and wild boars as intermediate hosts and humans as the sole definitive hosts. Since poor sanitation and free-roaming pigs contribute to maintaining its life cycle, cysticercosis is endemic in developing countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, while local transmission is generally absent in developed countries. However, we unexpectedly identified three cases of cysticercosis in wild boars in Japan between 2014 and 2023. Genetic analyses were performed on six cysticerci collected from two wild boars independently captured in 2023. Phylogenetic analysis using three nuclear DNA markers confirmed that the cysticerci were indeed T. solium. Mitogenome sequencing from these cysticerci yielded six complete mitogenomes, each 13,712 bp in length and identical to each other. Haplotype network analysis using mitochondrial cox1 and cob sequences revealed that the cysticerci in Japan possess a haplotype distinct from haplogroups in other endemic regions, i.e., haplogroups in Asia, Africa/America, and Bhutan, indicating that the T. solium population is divided into at least four haplogroups. Subsequent phylogenetic inference from the mitochondrial 12 protein-coding sequences demonstrated that the Japanese haplotype diverged from both the Asian and African/American haplogroups before the divergence of these two major haplogroups in the early to middle Pleistocene. Our findings indicate that the T. solium life cycle can be maintained in regions generally considered non-endemic, highlighting an overlooked risk of local transmission in developed countries. Furthermore, the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships revealed in this study may provide evidence for revisiting the "Out of Africa" hypothesis for T. solium. Comprehensive mitogenomic analyses based on additional specimens would hold the key to unraveling the evolutionary history of this tapeworm, which currently uses humans as its sole definitive host.

Functional identification of Annexin B1 and Annexin B2 from Cysticercus cellulosae and their mechanism in plasma membrane repair

BACKGROUND

Cysticercosis is a severe foodborne zoonotic parasitosis infected by the metacestode larvae of Taenia solium. However, its invasion mechanism is still not clear, which might provide the important evidence for treatment or vaccine. It was reported the annexin involved in the physiological and pathological functions of Cysticercus cellulosae. However, the regulatory mechanisms and roles of annexin B1 and annexin B2 in the invasion and immune escape of Cysticercus cellulosae have not been fully explored.

METHODS

The annexin was acquired by cloning in prokaryotic expression vector, expressed in Escherichia coli, and purified by affinity chromatography. Its expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. The anticoagulant function and its underlying mechanism was verified by the determination of activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time and phospholipid binding activity. The membrane repair function was verified by cell culture, transfection, and laser confocal technology.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemistry results showed the B1 and B2 were mainly expressed on the body surface and the surface of digestive glands of Cysticercus cellulosae. The Blood coagulation results illustrated the B1 and B2 can prolong the time of both exogenous and endogenous coagulation pathways, with B2 having a more significant effect. They tend to bind to phosphatidylserine, possibly interfering with coagulation complex formation and inhibiting the coagulation pathway, and may assist in the worm's penetration through blood vessels and migration to parasitic sites. The plasma membrane repair test revealed the cells transfected with B1 and B2 genes have a significantly shorter plasma membrane repair time than the control group, suggesting that these proteins may be involved in repairing the worm's body surface to resist the immune system's attack when the host immune system attacks.

CONCLUSIONS

The Annexin B1 and Annexin B2 of Cysticercus cellulosae possess anticoagulant properties and can assist in membrane repair. Given these functions, it is speculated that they play a crucial role in immune evasion and invasion. However, further experiments are required to provide direct evidence to further validate these speculations.

A case report on 'fortuitous diagnosis of ocular cysticercosis in a case of unrelated eye injury'

INTRODUCTION

Cysticercosis, a parasitic infection caused by Taenia solium, is often contracted through the consumption of contaminated undercooked vegetables, pork, or beef. Ocular involvement, although rare, can have severe consequences if untreated. This case report highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of ocular cysticercosis.

CASE DISCUSSION

This case report presents a case of a 40-year-old male who presented with redness and a white structure in his right eye following self-removal of a foreign body. A history of pork consumption was noted. Slit lamp examination revealed a Cysticercus vesicle with an invaginated scolex in the anterior chamber, attached to the iris. Diagnosis was confirmed through stool analysis and B-scan ocular ultrasonography. Under local anesthesia, the cyst was surgically extracted by viscoexpression. Postoperative management included topical antibiotics, oral and topical steroids, and albendazole to prevent recurrence. The patient achieved a stable Best Corrected Visual Acuity of 20/20 (0.0 logMAR) in the affected eye, with no signs of recurrence or inflammation on follow-up. His clinical course was uncomplicated.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates the significance of early detection and intervention for ocular cysticercosis, highlighting the roles of surgical removal and antiparasitic therapy. Preventive measures such as improved hygiene practices and dietary precautions are essential to reduce the risk of cysticercosis.

Ultrasound B-Scan for Posterior Segment and Extraocular Evaluation in Ocular Cysticercosis

Purpose

Cysticercosis, caused by Taenia solium larvae, can affect various ocular and extraocular structures, leading to significant morbidity. Ultrasound B-scan imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and classifying cysticercosis lesions. The aim of the study was to describe the ultrasound B-scan characteristics of ocular and extraocular cysticercosis, proposing a classification system based on anatomical localization to enhance understanding and management.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective study of consecutive cases with intraocular or extraocular cysticercosis was conducted from January 1993 to December 2023 in Mumbai, India. B-scan ultrasound was performed by an experienced imaging specialist. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics and the proportion of cysticercosis in each anatomical location. Cysticercosis lesions were classified based on anatomical location observed during imaging.

Results

Amongst the 56 eyes evaluated, intraocular posterior segment involvement (n=25) and extraocular involvement (n=31) were observed. Extraocular cysticercosis predominantly affected the medial rectus muscle (40%), followed by the inferior rectus (28%), lateral rectus (20%), and superior rectus muscles (12%). Orbital cysts were localized in the posterior extraconal (50%), anterior extraconal (34.33%), and intraconal (16.67%) regions. Intra-vitreous cysticercosis (n=9) exhibited thin-walled cysts with minimal inflammation, progressing to thickened cyst walls in the late stages. Sub-hyaloid cysticercosis (n=8) showed initial thin vitreous detachment, progressing to thickened vitreous adhesions. Sub-retinal cysticercosis (n=9) without retinal detachment indicated early disease, while cases with detachment suggested disease progression.

Conclusion

The proposed anatomical classification system based on B-scan ultrasound features provides a structured approach to categorizing cysticercosis lesions, enhancing understanding and management in ophthalmic practice.

Isolated brachioradialis symptomatic cysticercosis in a young female: A rare entity surgically managed

Taenia solium is a parasite and is endemic in the developing countries due to various unhygienic faecal practices. The disseminated form is commoner with the brain being the most common site of affliction. This report is of a young female patient with complaints of an insidious and progressive swelling of the right forearm. Clinicoradiological features were suggestive of an isolated myocysticercosis which was symptomatic with restricted pronation and supination. The symptoms persisted post a course of Albendazole, and the cyst had to be excised as it was impinging on the median and radial nerves. The patient has been asymptomatic after a 3-month post-operative period with no signs or imaging evidence of residual disease. The presence of isolated intramuscular cysticercosis is an extremely rare and a high index of suspicion is needed for early diagnosis. Although medical management is extremely effective, surgical excision may be required in certain cases.

Oxfendazole Nitazoxanide combination in experimental neurocysticercosis - Anti-inflammatory and cysticidal effects

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. The complications of NCC include seizures, headaches, cognitive impairment, and focal neurological deficits. In addition to antiparasitic drugs and surgery, the management of NCC includes the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. The traditional treatment with albendazole and praziquantel has not been altered over 30 years and present several side effects. There are other anti-helminthic drugs such as oxfendazole and nitazoxanide that may show efficacy in NCC treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the histopathologic aspects of experimental NCC after in vivo treatment with the combination of oxfendazole and nitazoxanide. Balb/c mice were infected with T. crassiceps cysticerci and divided into groups of 10 animals each that received a single dose through gavage as follows: group treated with NaCl 0.9% (control group); group treated by monotherapy of the anti-helminthic drugs, 30 mg/kg in single dose of oxfendazole (OXF) or nitazoxanide (NTZ); and groups treated with the combination of the drugs (OXF/NTZ group). Macroscopic and microscopic analysis were performed. There was greater presence of final stage cysticerci after treatment. The microscopic analysis of the general pathological processes showed that the monotherapy with all treatment groups induced higher perivasculitis than what was observed in the control group. In contrast, the combination treatment showed a lower observation of PMN and MN inflammatory infiltration in comparison to the other treatments and to the control one. These results show that indeed the association of benzimidazole derivatives which present both anti-helminthic and anti-inflammatory properties with other cysticidal drugs are beneficial for the NCC treatment in which the aim is to destroy parasite without inducing inflammatory damage in the brain tissue.

From laboratory to clinical practice: an update of the immunological and molecular tools for neurocysticercosis diagnosis

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is caused by the invasion of Taenia solium larvae in the central nervous system (CNS) and stands as the predominant cause of epilepsy and other neurological disorders in many developing nations. NCC diagnosis is challenging because it relies on brain imaging exams (CT or MRI), which are poorly available in endemic rural or resource-limited areas. Moreover, some NCC cases cannot be easily detected by imaging, leading to inconclusive results. Multiple laboratory assays, principally immunological, have been developed to support the diagnosis and/or monitor the treatment efficacy, but its production can be costly, laborious, and non-globally accessible because they depend on parasite material. Therefore, recent advances have been focused on the implementation of recombinant or synthetic antigens as well as monoclonal antibodies for NCC immunodiagnosis purposes. Similarly, molecular diagnosis has been explored, obtaining promising results. Here we described the recent progress in the development of immunological and molecular diagnostic tools for NCC diagnosis over the past 13 years, discussing their potential application to address important challenges and how to focus future directions to improve NCC diagnosis with emphasis on enhance accessibility and the importance of test validation to provide an adequate support for clinical decisions.

Parasite-derived microRNA let-7-5p detection for metacestodiasis based on rolling circular amplification-assisted CRISPR/Cas9

Metacestodiasis is an infectious disease caused by the larval stage of cestode parasites. This disease poses a serious health hazard to wildlife, livestock, and humans, and it incurs substantial economic losses by impacting the safety of the livestock industry, the quality of meat production, and public health security. Unfortunately, there is currently no available molecular diagnostic method capable of distinguishing cysticercus- and Echinococcus-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) from other helminthes and hosts in the plasma of metacestode-infected animals. This study aims to develop a specific, sensitive, and cost-efficient molecular diagnostic method for cysticercosis and echinococcosis, particularly for early detection. The study developed a rolling circular amplification (RCA)-assisted CRISPR/Cas9 detection method based on parasite-derived miRNA let-7-5p. Using a series of dilutions of the let-7 standard, the limit of detection (LOD) of the qPCR, RCA, and RCA-assisted CRISPR/Cas9 methods was compared. The specificity of qPCR and CRISPR/Cas9 was evaluated using four artificially synthesized let-7 standards from different species. A total of 151 plasma samples were used to evaluate the diagnostic performance. Additionally, the study also assessed the correlation between plasma levels of let-7-5p, the number of Taenia pisiformis cysticerci, and the weight of Echinococcus multilocularis cysts. The results demonstrated that the RCA-assisted CRISPR/Cas9 assay could significantly distinguish let-7 from cestodes and other species, achieving a LOD of 10 aM; the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for rabbit cysticercosis and mouse E. multilocularis were 100% and 97.67%, and 100% and 100%, respectively. Notably, let-7-5p gradually increased in the plasma of T. pisiformis-infected rabbits from 15 days post infection (dpi), peaked at 60 dpi, and persisted until 120 dpi. In E. multilocularis-infected mice, let-7-5p gradually increased from 15 dpi and persisted until 90 dpi. Furthermore, the expression of let-7-5p positively correlated with the number of cysticerci and cyst weight. These results indicated that the let-7-5p-based RCA-assisted CRISPR/Cas9 assay is a sensitive and specific detection method that can be used as a universal diagnostic method for metacestodiasis, particularly for early diagnosis (15 dpi).

Development and evaluation of time-resolved rapid immunofluorescence test for detection of TSOL18 specific antibody in porcine cysticercosis infections

BACKGROUND

Porcine cysticercosis, a serious zoonotic parasitic disease, is caused by the larvae of Taenia solium and has been acknowledged by the World Organization for Animal Health. The current detection methods of Cysticercus cellulosae cannot meet the needs of large-scale and rapid detection in the field. We hypothesized that the immunofluorescence chromatography test strip (ICS) for detecting Cysticercus cellulosae, according to optimization of a series of reaction systems was conducted, and sensitivity, specificity, and stability testing, and was finally compared with ELISA. This method utilizes Eu3+-labeled time-resolved fluorescent microspheres (TRFM) coupled with TSOL18 antigen to detect TSOL18 antibodies in infected pig sera.

RESULTS

ICS and autopsy have highly consistent diagnostic results (n = 133), as determined by Cohen's κ analysis (κ = 0.925). And the results showed that the proposed ICS are high sensitivity (0.9459) with specificity (0.9792). The ICS was unable to detect positive samples of other parasites. It can be stored for at least six months at 4℃.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we established a TRFM-ICS method with higher sensitivity and specificity than indirect ELISA. Results obtained from serum samples can be read within 10 min, indicating a rapid, user-friendly test suitable for large-scale field detection.

Concordance between two monoclonal antibody-based antigen detection enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for measuring cysticercal antigen levels in sera from pigs experimentally infected with Taenia solium and Taenia hydatigena

BACKGROUND

Antigen detection in Taenia solium cysticercosis confirms viable infection in the intermediate host (either pig or human). The reference B158/B60 monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based Ag-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has acceptable levels of sensitivity and specificity in human neurocysticercosis with multiple brain cysts, although its sensitivity is lower in cases with single brain cysts, whereas in porcine cysticercosis the assay specificity is affected by its frequent cross-reaction with Taenia hydatigena, another common cestode found in pigs. Our group has produced 21 anti-T. solium mAbs reacting against antigens of the whole cyst, vesicular fluid, and secretory/excretory products, identifying TsW8/TsW5 as the most promising pair of mAbs for an Ag-ELISA.

METHODS

We report the use of the TsW8/TsW5 Ag-ELISA to measure cysticercus antigen levels [expressed as optical density (OD) values] in two panels of sera collected from day 0 (baseline) to day 90 postinfection (PI) from pigs experimentally infected with T. solium (n = 26) and T. hydatigena (n = 12). At baseline and on days 28 and 90 PI, we used Bland-Altman (BA) analysis and Lin's concordance correlation coefficients (CCC) to determine the concordance between the TsW8/TsW5 and the B158/B60 Ag-ELISA.

RESULTS

The TsW8/TsW5 Ag-ELISA was able to efficiently measure circulating antigen levels in T. solium-infected pigs, similar to that obtained with the B158/B60 Ag-ELISA. Almost all paired log-OD differences between assays were within the limits of agreement (LoA) in the BA analysis at baseline and on days 28 and 90 PI (92.3%, 100%, and 100%, respectively), and a high concordance of log-ODs between assays was also found (Lin's CCC: 0.69, 0.92, and 0.96, respectively, all P < 0.001). In pigs infected with T. hydatigena, almost all paired log-OD differences were within the LoA in the BA analysis, whereas the concordance of log-ODs between assays was low at baseline (Lin's CCC: 0.24) but increased on days 28 and 90 PI (Lins' CCC: 0.88 and 0.98, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

The TsW8/TsW5 Ag-ELISA recognizes antigens in pigs with T. solium cysticercosis and is highly concordant with the B158/B60 Ag-ELISA. However, its diagnostic use is hampered by cross-reactions with T. hydatigena, as in other mAb-based Ag-ELISAs.

Using the model cestode Taenia crassiceps for the study of cysticercosis

Taenia solium is the aetiological agent of taeniasis/cysticercosis, one of the most severe neglected tropical diseases (NTD) according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The life cycle of T. solium alternates between pigs (intermediate host) and humans (definitive host). In addition, humans can act as accidental intermediate hosts if they ingest infective eggs. In this case, the most severe condition of the disease occurs when parasites invade the central nervous system, causing neurocysticercosis (NCC). The complexity of the life cycle of T. solium imposes a barrier to study this pathogen thoroughly. Thus, related species, such as T. crassiceps are commonly used. Due to its capacity to multiply asexually, T. crassiceps can be maintained by serial passage in laboratory mice in standard biosecurity level facilities. In addition, an in vitro system to generate cysticerci in the presence of feeder cells has been recently developed. Despite model species display biological differences with their zoonotic counterparts, they have historically helped to understand the biology of the related pathogenic species and hence, generate improvements in NTD detection and control. In this chapter, we describe the procedures to carry out both in vivo and in vitro systems for T. crassiceps in the laboratory.

Massive neurocysticercosis in a ten-year-old girl: a case report

BACKGROUND

Massive neurocysticercosis is a rare form of neurocysticercosis, and can lead to serious conditions and even death.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here we present a case of ten-year-old Tibetan girl who developed headache and vomiting. Her brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) illustrated lots of intracranial cystic lesions, and no obvious extracranial lesions were found. Serum immunoglobulin G antibodies against cysticerci were positive by the use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These results in combination with her medical history were in line with massive neurocysticercosis. The patients recovered well after supportive management and antiparasitic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This case provides insights on the diagnosis and treatment of massive neurocysticercosis. The treatment of patients with massive neurocysticercosis should be in an individualized fashion, and the use of antiparasitic drugs in these patients must be decided after carefully weighing the risks and benefits.

Calcified Neurocysticercosis: Demographic, Clinical, and Radiological Characteristics of a Large Hospital-Based Patient Cohort

Neurocysticercosis (NCC), the infection of the central nervous system caused by Taenia solium larvae (cysticerci), is a major cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide. Calcification in NCC is the most common neuroimaging finding among individuals with epilepsy in T. solium-endemic areas. We describe the demographic, clinical, and radiological profiles of a large hospital cohort of patients with calcified NCC in Peru (during the period 2012-2022) and compared profiles between patients with and without a previous known diagnosis of viable infection. A total of 524 patients were enrolled (mean age at enrollment: 40.2 ± 15.2 years, mean age at symptom onset: 29.1 ± 16.1 years, 56.3% women). Of those, 415 patients (79.2%) had previous seizures (median time with seizures: 5 years, interquartile range (IQR): 2-13 years; median number of seizures: 7 (IQR: 3-32)), of which 333 (80.2%) had predominantly focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures; and 358 (68.3%) used antiseizure medication). Patients had a median number of three calcifications (IQR: 1-7), mostly located in the frontal lobes (79%). In 282 patients (53.8%) there was a previous diagnosis of viable infection, while 242 only had evidence of calcified NCC since their initial neuroimaging. Most patients previously diagnosed with viable infection were male, had previous seizures, had seizures for a longer time, had more calcifications, and had a history of taeniasis more frequently than patients without previously diagnosed viable infection (all p < 0.05). Patients with calcified NCC were heterogeneous regarding burden of infection and clinical manifestations, and individuals who were diagnosed after parasites calcified presented with milder disease manifestations.

Antibody Banding Patterns on the Enzyme-Linked Immunoelectrotransfer Blot (EITB) Assay Clearly Discriminate Viable Cysticercosis in Naturally Infected Pigs

Enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot (EITB) detects antibodies against seven Taenia solium larvae antigens in three protein families (GP50, T24/42, and 8-kDa) with different structures and functions. EITB banding patterns against these antigens in pigs provide information about the course of infection and may discriminate viable cysticercosis. We analyzed the banding patterns and infection outcomes (presence of viable cysts, degenerated cysts, and any cysts) of 512 rural pigs. Banding patterns were grouped into homogenous classes using latent class analysis, and relationships with infection outcomes were assessed. Four classes were identified: 1 (n = 308, EITB-negative or positive for the GP50 family), 2 (n = 127, positive for GP50 (GP50 family), GP42-39 and GP24 (T24/42 family), but negative for 8-kDa antigens), 3 (n = 22, positive for GP50 and T24/42 antigens (GP42-39 and GP24), as well as to 8-kDa bands GP13, GP14, and GP18, but negative for GP21), and 4 (n = 55, positive for GP50 and T24/42 antigens, as well as to 8-kDa antigens GP21 and GP18 in combination). Pigs in classes 3 and 4 were more likely to have viable cysts (72.6% and 96.4%, respectively) than pigs in classes 1 and 2 (0.7% and 27.6%, respectively; p < 0.001). The number of infections with any cysts was higher in classes 3 and 4 (77.3% and 98.2%, respectively) and lower in classes 2 and 1 (34.7% and 4.9%, respectively; p < 0.001). Pigs with viable cysts represented >90% of pigs with any cysts in classes 3 and 4 (94.1% and 98.2%, respectively), while degenerated cysts were frequent among pigs with any cysts in classes 1, 3, and 2 (86.7%, 47.1%, and 43.2%, respectively; p < 0.001). EITB banding patterns strongly correlate with cysticercosis infection status in rural pigs, with classes 3 and 4 being more predictive of viable infections.

Identification and phylogenetic analysis of Taenia spp. parasites found in wildlife in the Emilia-Romagna region, northern Italy (2017-2022)

The recent expansion of the habitat of several wildlife species, comprising anthropized areas, is a relevant risk factor for many zoonotic diseases and should be considered in national and regional sanitary monitoring systems. We evaluated adult intestinal Taenia spp. parasites isolated from wild carnivores and cystic larval forms isolated from wild mammals analysed at the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagna (IZSLER) as part of the regional wildlife sanitary surveillance plan. Then, we assessed parasite species through molecular analysis (multiplex PCR followed by ribosomal 12S subunit gene sequencing) in order to update the epidemiological situation on Taeniids infection in the Emilia-Romagna wildlife, reporting the prevalence of each isolated species. The most commonly isolated species was Taenia serialis, which we detected in both wolves and foxes as definitive hosts and in roe deer as intermediate host. More attention on the distribution of Taeniids in wildlife should be paid, considering their potential zoonotic role: several Taenia spp. (Taenia solium, Taenia multiceps, Taenia serialis, Taenia brauni, Taenia glomerulatus) are known for causing coenurosis in humans, with possible severe or fatal outcomes.

Worm in the Eye: A Case Report of Ocular Neurocysticercosis With Adherent Retinal Cyst

Neurocysticercosis is caused by cysticercus cellulosae, the larval stage of Taenia solium, commonly referred to as the pork tapeworm. These larvae form cysts in several organs, including the brain, spinal cord, and eye. Neurocysticercosis is recognized by the World Health Organization as a public health issue and stands as the foremost preventable cause of epilepsy worldwide. Ocular neurocysticercosis refers to the concurrent involvement of the eyes and brain with cysticercus lesions. Neurological symptoms include focal deficits, intracranial hypertension, or cognitive decline. In the eye, the orbital type commonly presents with periocular swelling, ptosis, diplopia, restriction of ocular motility, or decreased vision. The ocular type shows signs of retinal detachment, a macular hole, and inflammation. A 45-year-old female presented with pain in his right eye with blurred vision for 15 days. On USG and MRI of the eye, a thin-walled lesion was noted. The brain showed a few calcified granulomas in the right parietal lobe on MRI. The left eye was normal. If left untreated, the cysts can lead to a severe inflammatory reaction in the eye, which may eventually lead to blindness. This blindness caused by cysticercus is preventable, and hence, early diagnosis and prompt medical or surgical treatment are essential.

An Interesting Case of Isolated Cysticercosis of Breast Masquerading as a Breast Lump in a Young Female

Human cysticercosis can affect any tissue or organ in the body and may be asymptomatic or manifest clinical signs and symptoms depending on the area of the body where cysticerci are found. However, at the same time, the involvement of the breast by cysticercosis is an extremely rare phenomenon, with very few case reports published before. In this report, we present the case of a 26-year-old married woman who came with a history of painless swelling in the left breast.

Intraventricular migration of fourth ventricular neurocysticercosis: an unusual complication during endoscopic surgery

A boy in his middle childhood presented with intermittent episodes of headache with vomiting for 6 months. Plain CT of the head and MRI of the brain revealed fourth ventricular cysticercal cyst with acute obstructive hydrocephalus. Endoscopic excision of the cyst was done along with endoscopic third ventriculostomy and septostomy with external ventricular drain placement. Although we were able to decompress the cysticercal cyst, unfortunately, the cyst got slipped from the grasper leaving the grasped cyst wall in the tooth of the grasper. Through this case report, we want to highlight that such a complication could also happen during neuroendoscopic cysticercal cyst removal and how we dealt with it. Our patient was discharged neurologically intact and was symptom free on follow-up.

Cysticercosis Mimicking Fibroadenoma of the Breast in a Young Female: A Case Report From North Central Nigeria

The parasitic infestation, cysticercosis, arises when humans are infested with the larvae (cysticerci) of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium (T. solium). Epidemiologically, cysticercosis presents a worldwide distribution due in part to endemicity in developing countries in Latin America, Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa, and increased migration from these countries to more developed countries in Europe and North America. Cysticercosis may be asymptomatic or may manifest clinical symptoms and signs depending on which part of the body cysticerci are found, including skeletal and heart muscle, skin, subcutaneous tissues, the lungs, liver, the central nervous system (CNS), and less commonly, the oral mucosa and breast. We report a case of a mass in the left breast in an 11-year-old Nigerian girl, which was diagnosed clinically and on ultrasonography as fibroadenoma but was confirmed on histology to be cysticercosis. Cysticercosis should be included in the differential diagnoses of breast lumps in persons of all ages and sex, especially in endemic areas and in places with significant immigration from endemic areas.

Global variation in force-of-infection trends for human Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis

Infection by Taenia solium poses a major burden across endemic countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) 2021–2030 Neglected Tropical Diseases roadmap has proposed that 30% of endemic countries achieve intensified T. solium control in hyperendemic areas by 2030. Understanding geographical variation in age-prevalence profiles and force-of-infection (FoI) estimates will inform intervention designs across settings. Human taeniasis (HTT) and human cysticercosis (HCC) age-prevalence data from 16 studies in Latin America, Africa, and Asia were extracted through a systematic review. Catalytic models, incorporating diagnostic performance uncertainty, were fitted to the data using Bayesian methods, to estimate rates of antibody (Ab)-seroconversion, infection acquisition and Ab-seroreversion or infection loss. HCC FoI and Ab-seroreversion rates were also estimated across 23 departments in Colombia from 28,100 individuals. Across settings, there was extensive variation in all-ages seroprevalence. Evidence for Ab-seroreversion or infection loss was found in most settings for both HTT and HCC and for HCC Ab-seroreversion in Colombia. The average duration until humans became Ab-seropositive/infected decreased as all-age (sero)prevalence increased. There was no clear relationship between the average duration humans remain Ab-seropositive and all-age seroprevalence. Marked geographical heterogeneity in T. solium transmission rates indicate the need for setting-specific intervention strategies to achieve the WHO goals.

Bioactive Antimicrobial Peptides: A New Weapon to Counteract Zoonosis

Zoonoses have recently become the center of attention of the general population and scientific community. Notably, more than 30 new human pathogens have been identified in the last 30 years, 75% of which can be classified as zoonosis. The complete eradication of such types of infections is far out of reach, considering the limited understanding of animal determinants in zoonoses and their causes of emergence. Therefore, efforts must be doubled in examining the spread, persistence, and pathogenicity of zoonosis and studying possible clinical interventions and antimicrobial drug development. The search for antimicrobial bioactive compounds has assumed great emphasis, considering the emergence of multi-drug-resistant microorganisms. Among the biomolecules of emerging scientific interest are antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), potent biomolecules that can potentially act as important weapons against infectious diseases. Moreover, synthetic AMPs are easily tailored (bioinformatically) to target specific features of the pathogens to hijack, inducing no or very low resistance. Although very promising, previous studies on SAMPs' efficacy are still at their early stages. Indeed, further studies and better characterization on their mechanism of action with in vitro and in vivo assays are needed so as to proceed to their clinical application on human beings.

Neurocysticercosis: an update on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is an important cause of neurological disease worldwide, including imported cases in nonendemic countries.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to update information on diagnosis, management, and prevention of neurocysticercosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

WHO and Infectious Diseases Society of America/American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene guidelines emphasize the importance of corticosteroids and antiparasitic drugs for viable parenchymal disease and single enhancing lesions. Subarachnoid NCC is associated with a high fatality rate unless optimally treated. Advances in subarachnoid NCC include use of prolonged antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory courses and the increasing use of antigen-detection and quantitative PCR assays in diagnosis and follow-up. Emerging data support the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive surgery in ventricular cases. Calcified neurocysticercosis continues to be associated with a high burden of disease. Field studies are demonstrating the feasibility of eradication using a combination of mass chemotherapy for human tapeworms and vaccination/treatment of porcine cysticercosis.

SUMMARY

NCC remains an important and challenging cause of neurological disease with significant morbidity despite advances in treatment and prevention.

Multiple-bead assay for the differential serodiagnosis of neglected human cestodiases: Neurocysticercosis and cystic echinococcosis

BACKGROUND

Neurocysticercosis (NCC), and cystic echinococcosis (CE) are two neglected diseases caused by cestodes, co-endemic in many areas of the world. Imaging studies and serological tests are used in the diagnosis of both parasitic diseases, but cross-reactions may confound the results of the latter. The novel multiplex bead-based assay with recombinant antigens has been reported to increases the diagnostic accuracy of serological techniques.

METHODOLOGY

We set-up an immunoassay based on the multiplex bead-based platform (MBA), using the rT24H (against Cysticercus cellulosae, causing cysticercosis) and r2B2t (against Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, causing CE) recombinant antigens, for simultaneous and differential diagnosis of these infections. The antigens were tested on 356 sera from 151 patients with CE, 126 patients with NCC, and 79 individuals negative for both diseases. Specificity was calculated including sera from healthy donors, other neurological diseases and the respective NCC or CE sera counterpart. The diagnostic accuracy of this assay was compared with two commercial ELISA tests, Novalisa and Ridascreen, widely used in the routine diagnosis of cysticercosis and CE, respectively.

MAIN FINDINGS

For the diagnosis of NCC, sensitivity ranged from 57.94-63.49% for the rT24H-MBA, and 40.48-46.03% for Novalisa ELISA depending on exclusion or inclusion of sera having equivocal results on ELISA from the analysis; specificities ranged from 90.87-91.30% and 70.43-76.96%, respectively. AUC values of the ROC curve were 0.783 (rT24H) and 0.619 (Novalisa) (p-value < 0.001). For the diagnosis of CE, the sensitivity of the r2B2t-MBA ranged from 68.87-69.77% and of Ridascreen ELISA from 50.00-57.62%; specificities from 92.47-92.68% and from 74.15-80.98%, respectively. AUC values were 0.717 and 0.760, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Overall, the recombinant antigens tested with the bead-based technology showed better diagnostic accuracy than the commercial assays, particularly for the diagnosis of NCC. The possibility of testing the same serum sample simultaneously for the presence of antibodies against both antigens is an added value particularly in seroprevalence studies for cysticercosis linked to control programs in endemic areas where these two parasites coexist.