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Diagnosis of Cysticercosis in Eye and Treatment Follow-Up of Extra Ocular Forms by Serum IgG ELISA
June 28, 2025
Medical Therapy
- Albendazole: Anti-parasitic drug that kills larvae.
- Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation caused by dying parasites.
Combined therapy showed a 20% cure rate and 60% partial improvement in one study .
Surgery
Reserved for cysts causing mechanical damage (e.g., retinal detachment). Post-surgery, ELISA helps track recurrence .
Table 2: Treatment Outcomes in 10 Patients
| Outcome | Number of Cases |
|---|---|
| Complete cure | 2 |
| Partial improvement | 6 |
| Surgery required | 2 |
Data from Kaliaperumal et al. (2005) .
The Critical Role of Serum IgG ELISA in Follow-Up
ELISA isn’t just for diagnosis—it’s vital for monitoring treatment success. Antibody levels drop as parasites degenerate, providing a clear signal of recovery. For example:
Table 3: Antibody Levels Before and After Treatment
| Patient Group | Pre-Treatment (OD Ratio) | Post-Treatment (OD Ratio) |
|---|---|---|
| Extraocular | 2.5 | 0.8 |
| Intraocular | 1.9 | 1.2 |
OD = Optical Density; Data adapted from Sahu et al. .
Prevention: A Global Health Priority
Sanitation: Improving access to clean water.
Education: Avoiding raw pork and contaminated vegetables.
Mass Drug Administration: Deworming campaigns in endemic areas .
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Serum IgG ELISA is a game-changer in managing ocular cysticercosis, bridging gaps in diagnosis and follow-up. While challenges like false negatives persist , its integration with imaging and clinical data offers a holistic approach. As research refines antigen targets, this tool could become the gold standard for parasitic eye infections—turning the tide against preventable blindness.