Cysticercosis of Externsor Carpi Ulnaris – A differential diagnosis for painful swelling at elbow

INTRODUCTION: Cysticercosis is an infection by the larval stage (cystcercus cellulosae) of the cestode, Taenia Solium (pork tape worm). It occurs especially in those individuals who live in the endemic areas. After gaining entry into the body, the larva become encysted and may lie in subcutaneous tissue, striated muscle, vitreous humor, or other tissues. CASE REPORT: We report an unusual case of cysticercosis of the Extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) muscle, which presented as localized swelling at the lateral aspect of elbow. The diagnosis was confirmed on the musculoskeletal ultrasonographic examination of the elbow. It revealed the Cysticercus cellulosae as hyperechoic lesion surrounded by fluid. MRI was done later which localized the larval stage in the Extensor carpi ulnaris muscle at elbow. CONCLUSION: For swelling in the region of elbow in endemic areas of tapeworm infestations, the differential diagnosis of muscle cysticercosis should be kept in mind.