Definition:

Human sparganosis is caused by the larval form (spargana) of the canine/feline tapeworms belonging to the genus Spirometra. A wide range of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals serve as second intermediate/paratenic hosts. Humans become infected by ingesting the raw or undercooked meat of snakes or frogs, drinking untreated water, or using raw flesh in traditional poultices. Sparganosis has been reported sporadically around the world, and a higher prevalence of the disease occurs in several Asian countries. Spargana invade the brain, eyes, spinal cord, breast, and subcutaneous tissues, leading to blindness, paralysis, and even death.