Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A recent X-ray scan from a patient in Florida has sent shockwaves through the medical community. The scan revealed a body riddled with countless calcified tapeworm larva cysts, sparking widespread discussion after the image went viral on social media.
The X-ray, shared by Dr. Sam Ghali on his social media account, shows the patient’s torso filled with countless oval-shaped cysts. According to Dr. Ghali, the patient was diagnosed with cysticercosis, a condition caused by the larval cysts of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium).
“This is the craziest X-ray I’ve ever seen,” Dr. Ghali wrote in his post on January 17, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
Linked to Undercooked Pork
Dr. Ghali explained that the patient contracted the condition after consuming contaminated food. Specifically, cysticercosis often arises from eating raw or undercooked pork, which can harbor tapeworm cysts.
Tapeworms typically develop within weeks in the human digestive tract. However, cysticercosis occurs when the larvae migrate to the body’s soft tissues, where they calcify and form cysts.
“The lifecycle begins when someone consumes undercooked pork, becoming infected with tapeworms in their digestive system. These individuals can then spread tapeworm eggs to others through contaminated food or drinks,” Dr. Ghali explained.
Human-to-Human Transmission
Cysticercosis can also be transmitted when infected individuals pass tapeworm eggs to others through poor hygiene. This often happens when hands are not properly washed after using the restroom, or when drinking water is contaminated with fecal matter.
This alarming case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of consuming improperly cooked pork. Such infections can lead to severe complications, including muscle, skin, and even brain damage.
Not Limited to Pork
Dr. Aru Ariadno, an internal medicine specialist, noted that cysticercosis isn’t restricted to undercooked pork. Other types of improperly cooked meat, such as ground beef, chicken, and poultry, can also pose risks.
“Undercooked meat may contain bacteria or parasites. Ground beef, for example, can become contaminated through unsanitary meat grinders, while poultry may carry harmful organisms if not cleaned or stored properly,” Dr. Aru states on January 25, as reported by Detik.
He emphasized that tapeworm infections can have devastating effects. “Cysticercosis can cause headaches, seizures, and confusion when it affects the brain. If it spreads to the eyes, it can lead to blindness,” he warned.
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Prevention is Key
Dr. Aru also stressed the importance of food safety. Cross-contamination can occur if the same cutting boards or knives are used for different meats without proper cleaning. Maintaining hygiene in food preparation is critical to reducing the risk of infection.
This case underscores the need for public awareness about the dangers of consuming undercooked meat and the importance of proper food handling practices to prevent serious health conditions.
(Raidi/Agung)
