Cysticercosis of other sites Save
ICD-10 code: B69.8
Chapter: Certain infectious and parasitic diseases
Cysticercosis of Other Sites: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. It is a common health problem in developing countries, particularly in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. While the most common site of cysticercosis is the brain, it can also affect other parts of the body, including the eyes, muscles, and skin. In this article, we will discuss cysticercosis of other sites, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Symptoms of Cysticercosis of Other Sites
The symptoms of cysticercosis of other sites depend on the location of the cysts. If the cysts are in the muscles, patients may experience pain, swelling, and weakness. In the eyes, cysticercosis can cause vision problems, eye pain, and redness. In the skin, cysticercosis may result in the development of small lumps or nodules.
Causes of Cysticercosis of Other Sites
Cysticercosis of other sites occurs when the eggs of the pork tapeworm are ingested and hatch into larvae. These larvae then travel through the bloodstream to different parts of the body, where they form cysts. Ingesting contaminated food or water is the most common cause of cysticercosis. However, it can also occur through poor sanitation or contact with infected individuals.
Treatment of Cysticercosis of Other Sites
The treatment of cysticercosis of other sites depends on the location and severity of the cysts. In some cases, the cysts may disappear on their own without treatment. However, in other cases, medication may be necessary to kill the larvae and dissolve the cysts. Surgery may also be required to remove the cysts in certain locations, such as the eyes or brain.
- Antiparasitic Medications: Medications such as praziquantel and albendazole are commonly used to treat cysticercosis. These medications work by killing the tapeworm larvae and dissolving the cysts. The length of treatment depends on the location and severity of the cysts.
- Surgery: Surgery may be required to remove the cysts in certain locations, such as the eyes or brain. Surgery is usually recommended when the cysts are causing severe symptoms or when medication is ineffective.
- Symptomatic Treatment: In addition to antiparasitic medication and surgery, symptomatic treatment may be necessary to manage the symptoms of cysticercosis. For example, pain medication may be prescribed to manage muscle pain, while eye drops may be used to relieve eye pain
Diagnosis Codes for Cysticercosis of other sites | B69.8