Spontaneous extrusion of extraocular cysticercus cysts.

PURPOSE: We treated two patients who had spontaneous extrusion of cysticercus cysts and subconjunctival swelling. Additionally, one patient had severe myositis and restriction of ocular movements.

METHODS

The patients were prescribed oral albendazole, 15 mg/kg of body mass per day. Systemic corticosteroids were also given to the patient who had severe myositis.

RESULTS

Spontaneous extrusion of the cysts occurred in both patients within three to five days of starting albendazole therapy. The conjunctival defects healed without any surgical intervention. The ocular motility in the patient with myositis returned to normal.

CONCLUSION

As extrusion happened soon after the start of albendazole therapy, it is uncertain whether this therapy played any role. Additionally, it is not clear if systemic therapy must be continued in the absence of systemic and neurologic manifestations.