Apparent Sparganosis Presenting as a Palpable Neck Mass: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Sparganosis is an uncommon human parasitic infection caused by plerocercoid cysts of the genus Spirometra. Sparganosis of the neck is a rare condition, thus making it difficult to diagnose. It is often initially misdiagnosed as a lymphadenopathy or a soft tissue tumor. Herein, we describe a rare case of apparent sparganosis presenting as a palpable mass in the left neck of a 53-year-old female patient. Imaging studies played a key role in the diagnosis. In this case report, we emphasize that sparganosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a palpable superficial mass. We also stress the importance of meticulous radiological review in the context of appropriate clinical suspicion.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC

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