Cysticercosis masquerading as a salivary gland neoplasm

Coexistence of salivary gland cysticercosis with squamous cell carcinoma of the mandible

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infestation caused by the pork tapeworm larval stage, Cysticercus cellulosae. The majority of the cases present in ocular, cerebral, and subcutaneous locations. We report the presence of cysticercosis inside the submandibular gland in association with squamous cell carcinoma of the inferior alveolar ramus of the mandible. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report documenting cysticercosis inside a salivary gland. A 65-year-old male presented with complaints of an ulcerative lesion on the inferior alveolar ramus present for 2 months. Histological examination revealed a keratinizing well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma involving the alveolar margin and mandible. The histopathological examination of the submandibular gland revealed cysticercosis. This case emphasizes the importance of adequate sampling of all the tissues obtained for associated infectious disorders, more so in immunosuppressed patients, which will help the clinician to manage the case appropriately.

Albendazole: a broad spectrum anthelminthic for treatment of individuals and populations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

It is over 25 years ago since the original animal research was conducted into albendazole. This review highlights some important steps in fundamental research and the management of helminth disease that have occurred in the past year, appearing in the published literature.

RECENT FINDINGS

In recent years there have been several published studies on lymphatic filariasis and on the impact of albendazole treatment on growth and nutrition. Recent work consolidates some of these data and supplies substantive evidence of benefit especially in the area of hookworm anaemia. Why treatment of helminths actually produces these effects has not been understood, but investigations have begun to highlight the underlying mechanisms that relate to immunity. During the last year several reviews of diagnosis and management of helminth diseases have been published which provide much needed guidance on the effective use of albendazole, and its place in treatment overall. In common with many other parasitic diseases, the validity of using single agents is being challenged, and combination therapy is being investigated at the experimental level and in clinical practice to improve therapeutic responses and to reduce the risk of resistance to the limited range of drugs currently available.

SUMMARY

Albendazole has changed from being a drug for individuals with worms to one to treat communities and provide benefit in public health terms. In systemic parasitic disease, however, albendazole remains a treatment for individuals. Nearly 20 years of research and of clinical use has refined the tool, but new investigations suggest that much additional study is required before we fully understand helminth parasites and the benefits of treating them.