Sparganum spp. are the larval stages of certain tapeworms within the genus Spirometra, which cause sparganosis in humans. This parasitic infection typically occurs when humans consume undercooked or raw meat from intermediate hosts, such as frogs, snakes, or fish, that contain the larvae, or by drinking water contaminated with infected copepods (small crustaceans that harbor the larvae). In some cases, sparganosis can occur through direct contact when an infected animal’s flesh is applied to a wound or sore as a folk remedy.
Sparganosis usually presents as migrating lumps or masses under the skin (subcutaneous sparganosis), causing pain, inflammation, and swelling as the larvae move through tissues. In rare cases, sparganosis can become more severe if the larvae migrate to deeper tissues, such as the eyes (ocular sparganosis), brain, or spinal cord, leading to neurological symptoms, vision impairment, or other organ-specific complications.
Treatment for sparganosis often requires surgical removal of the larvae, as antiparasitic medications are generally ineffective against these migratory larvae. Preventive measures include thoroughly cooking meat from potential intermediate hosts, avoiding the use of raw animal flesh as folk remedies, and ensuring drinking water is filtered or boiled in areas where Spirometra is endemic. Awareness and education about safe food and water practices are key to preventing this rare but potentially serious parasitic infection.
