Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by larval cysts of the tapeworm Taenia solium. It is highly prevalent in rural areas of developing countries with poor sanitary conditions. We report a rare case of extensive disseminated cysticercosis in a 98-year-old woman who was brought to the emergency department following a fall. The x-ray revealed numerous 'rice grain' calcifications predominantly oriented in the plane of muscle fibres. A broad review revealed pelvic, chest and inferior limb involvement. The findings were consistent with cysticercosis.
Learning points: Cysticercosis is a potentially eradicable disease transmitted via the orofaecal route and prevalent in areas with poor sanitation.It is rare in developed countries but may occur in association with migration and travel from endemic areas.
Keywords: Cysticercosis; Taenia solium.
© EFIM 2021.