There’s no mistaking a wriggling cestode, and sparganosis should rise to the top of the differential with a history of raw snake meat consumption. Sparganosis is a zoonotic infection caused by the larval stage of Spirometra tapeworms. Infection can also occur through ingestion or skin contact with raw frog or snake meat or by drinking contaminated water. Subcutaneous sparganosis is the most common presentation and often develops insidiously. Because the larvae are migratory, they may invade deeper tissues, including the viscera, as in this patient’s case. Watch the accompanying video if you want to see the diagnosis in action.
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There’s no mistaking a wriggling cestode, and sparganosis should rise to the top of the differential with a history of raw snake meat consumption. Sparganosis is a zoonotic infection caused by the larval stage of Spirometra tapeworms. Infection can also occur through ingestion or skin contact with raw frog or snake meat or by drinking contaminated water. Subcutaneous sparganosis is the most common presentation and often develops insidiously. Because the larvae are migratory, they may invade deeper tissues, including the viscera, as in this patient’s case. Watch the accompanying video if you want to see the diagnosis in action.