A case report on 'fortuitous diagnosis of ocular cysticercosis in a case of unrelated eye injury'.

INTRODUCTION: Cysticercosis, a parasitic infection caused by Taenia solium, is often contracted through the consumption of contaminated undercooked vegetables, pork, or beef. Ocular involvement, although rare, can have severe consequences if untreated. This case report highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of ocular cysticercosis.

CASE DISCUSSION: This case report presents a case of a 40-year-old male who presented with redness and a white structure in his right eye following self-removal of a foreign body. A history of pork consumption was noted. Slit lamp examination revealed a Cysticercus vesicle with an invaginated scolex in the anterior chamber, attached to the iris. Diagnosis was confirmed through stool analysis and B-scan ocular ultrasonography. Under local anesthesia, the cyst was surgically extracted by viscoexpression. Postoperative management included topical antibiotics, oral and topical steroids, and albendazole to prevent recurrence. The patient achieved a stable Best Corrected Visual Acuity of 20/20 (0.0 logMAR) in the affected eye, with no signs of recurrence or inflammation on follow-up. His clinical course was uncomplicated.

CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the significance of early detection and intervention for ocular cysticercosis, highlighting the roles of surgical removal and antiparasitic therapy. Preventive measures such as improved hygiene practices and dietary precautions are essential to reduce the risk of cysticercosis.