Subconjunctival cysticercosis – Is surgery always indicated? Role of medical management-literature review and report of two cases

Abstract

Ocular cysticercosis is caused by the larval form of pork tapeworm for which humans and pigs are the intermediate hosts. Intense inflammation secondary to immunological reaction is the hallmark feature of the infection, which can affect almost any tissue of the host. Orbital imaging yields specific features suggestive of the diagnosis. Although medical management is the recommended treatment for extra-ocular and retro-orbital cysticercosis, surgical removal has also been suggested by several authors. Here, we report two cases of subconjunctival cysticercosis, successfully managed with medical treatment alone using oral steroid and albendazole. Surgical excision for subconjunctival cysticercosis is associated with complications which can be observed even with the most experienced hands. Through these two cases, we wish to sensitize the practicing physicians regarding the most common ocular infestation seen in the developing countries along with brief literature review on the management protocols to be followed before any surgical reference.

Keywords

• albendazole
• extra-ocular cysticercosis
• retro-orbital cysticercosis
• subconjunctival cysticercosis