DIAGNOSIS OF PORK CYSTICERCOSIS: IDENTIFICATION OF CYSTS AND CALCIFICATIONS

Abstract

Porcine cysticercosis is a parasitic disease caused by the larval form of Taenia solium and represents a significant problem for both public health and animal production. Infection occurs when pigs ingest parasite eggs present in the environment, usually associated with inadequate sanitary conditions. After infection, cysticerci can develop in different tissues of the animal, mainly in the musculature, and may present as viable or calcified cysts. This work aims to address aspects related to the diagnosis of porcine cysticercosis, focusing on the identification of cysts and calcifications observed during examinations and inspection procedures. To this end, an analysis of studies investigating the occurrence of the disease in pigs and the main methods used for its detection was carried out. The analyzed studies indicate that porcine cysticercosis still occurs in different regions of the world and that its presence is frequently related to extensive farming systems, inadequate management, and lack of basic sanitation. Furthermore, diagnostic methods such as serological tests and direct observation of lesions contribute to the identification of the disease and the monitoring of its occurrence in herds. Therefore, accurate diagnosis of porcine cysticercosis is important to aid in sanitary surveillance and control of parasite transmission.