Myocysticercosis Presenting as Incomplete Claw Hand: A Rare Presentation of Cysticercus

Abstract

Human cysticercosis is an infection with the larval form of Taenia solium that commonly involves the central nervous system. Due to the infection, isolated muscular involvement is rare, and very few cases have been reported in the literature. Hereby, the authors present a rare instance of isolated muscular cysticercosis in a 15-year-old girl, resulting in an incomplete claw hand due to the compression of both the ulnar and median nerves. The patient had been experiencing swelling on the anterior aspect of her left forearm for eight months, with recent aggravation. The swelling was gradually followed by an inability to fully extend the middle and ring fingers for the past six months. The patient’s laboratory results were within normal limits, and ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the forearm confirmed the presence of cysticercosis. The treatment plan included a course of oral steroids and antihelminthic drugs, along with physiotherapy. In present case, the patient’s condition significantly improved with conservative management. The present case illustrates the diagnostic challenges due to the vague clinical presentation and unfamiliarity of clinicians with present entity, making it difficult to diagnose when seen as an isolated cyst. The unique manifestations of muscular cysticercosis emphasise the importance of early detection and proper management