Worm in the Eye: A Case Report of Ocular Neurocysticercosis With Adherent Retinal Cyst

Neurocysticercosis is caused by cysticercus cellulosae, the larval stage of Taenia solium, commonly referred to as the pork tapeworm. These larvae form cysts in several organs, including the brain, spinal cord, and eye. Neurocysticercosis is recognized by the World Health Organization as a public health issue and stands as the foremost preventable cause of epilepsy worldwide. Ocular neurocysticercosis refers to the concurrent involvement of the eyes and brain with cysticercus lesions. Neurological symptoms include focal deficits, intracranial hypertension, or cognitive decline. In the eye, the orbital type commonly presents with periocular swelling, ptosis, diplopia, restriction of ocular motility, or decreased vision. The ocular type shows signs of retinal detachment, a macular hole, and inflammation. A 45-year-old female presented with pain in his right eye with blurred vision for 15 days. On USG and MRI of the eye, a thin-walled lesion was noted. The brain showed a few calcified granulomas in the right parietal lobe on MRI. The left eye was normal. If left untreated, the cysts can lead to a severe inflammatory reaction in the eye, which may eventually lead to blindness. This blindness caused by cysticercus is preventable, and hence, early diagnosis and prompt medical or surgical treatment are essential.