Uncovering the secrets of the "brain-eating worm"

Uncovering the secrets of the "brain-eating worm"

Wang Mingyu The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University

According to foreign media reports, an 8-centimeter-long live roundworm was removed from the brain of an Australian woman. This is a 64-year-old woman from New South Wales, Australia. Since 2021, she has experienced a series of symptoms such as stomach pain, coughing and night sweats, and gradually became forgetful and depressed. After a series of examinations, the real cause was finally discovered during a craniotomy in 2022. When the surgeon picked up the wriggling, 8-centimeter-long light red worm with tweezers, everyone was shocked. According to analysis, this is a roundworm commonly found in pythons, and it may have survived in the patient's body for two months. It is the world's first case of human infection with snake roundworms.

In nature, parasites are ubiquitous. They are like "hermits" in life, quietly living in the human body and sometimes even invading our brains. So, how do parasites enter the brain? What do they do to the brain? And how can we prevent these potential "brain stealers"? In this article, we will unveil the mystery of parasites and explore scientific tips for preventing insects.

1. Exploring the “life circle” of parasites

First, let's get to know these creepy little creatures. According to their morphology, parasites can be roughly divided into: protozoa, worms and arthropods. They can act as pathogens to cause parasitic diseases, and can also act as vectors to spread diseases, playing a pivotal role in human infectious diseases. Some of them live in the host's body for a long time, such as roundworms and hookworms; some live in the host's body for a short time, such as parasites transmitted by mosquitoes, flies, etc. These parasites have unique living habits, and some can even "travel" in the human body, which has a serious impact on health.

2. Uncovering the secrets of how parasites enter the brain

The brain is the most mysterious, important and vulnerable part of the human body. Because it is protected by the blood-brain barrier, the brain is generally "immune to all poisons". I was terrified when I thought of those naked, legless or densely packed worms on their calves; and when I thought about "the scene of them drilling into the brain", I got goose bumps all over the floor. Those who often eat and drink indiscriminately give parasites an opportunity to take advantage. Parasites that can invade the brain include: protozoa (Entamoeba histolytica, Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, Sarcocystis), worms (trematodes, nematodes, tapeworms), etc. They enter the brain through the blood circulation, lymphatic system, extravascular space, intervertebral foramen, conjunctiva and nasal mucosa.

3. Beware of the “brain effects” of parasites

Parasitic infection refers to a pathological state in which parasites can survive and reproduce in the human body (host), and cause damage to host tissue cells. The presence and reproduction of parasites in the brain can trigger a series of adverse reactions. They may damage brain tissue, compress nerves, cause inflammation, etc. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, epilepsy, etc., which can be life-threatening in severe cases.

4. Scientific Pest Control Strategy

Knowing how parasites spread and how they affect us, we can take effective preventive measures. Here are some scientific tips for pest control:

Pay attention to food hygiene: Do not eat raw or undercooked animal products, especially wild animals. Also, avoid eating in unhygienic places.

Have regular physical examinations: Have regular physical examinations, especially for some common human parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium, etc.

Pay attention to personal hygiene: maintain personal hygiene habits, such as washing hands frequently, avoiding swimming in unclean waters, etc.

Enhance immunity: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as moderate exercise, a proper diet, and adequate sleep, to enhance the body's immunity and reduce the risk of parasitic infection.

Use anthelmintics: Use some anthelmintics under the guidance of a doctor, such as antimalarial drugs, anti-toxoplasmosis drugs, etc.

Although parasites are very harmful and scary, we can effectively prevent parasitic infections as long as we pay attention to personal hygiene, enhance immunity, and have regular physical examinations. In life, we must always be vigilant and strengthen our understanding and knowledge of parasites. In this way, we can better protect ourselves and our families and enjoy a healthy and happy life.