If untreated, ocular sparganosis can lead to blindness.In one case of brain infestation by Spirometra erinaceieuropaei, a man sought treatment for headaches, seizures, memory flashbacks and strange smells. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed a cluster of rings, initially in the right medial temporal lobe, but moving over time to the other side of the brain. The cause was not determined for four years; ultimately a biopsy was performed and a 1 cm-long tapeworm was found and removed. The patient continued to have symptoms. Transmission
The parasite is transmitted to humans in three different ways. First, humans may acquire the infection by drinking water that is contaminated with copepods housing Spirometra larvae. Second, humans may acquire the infection by consuming the raw flesh of one of the second intermediate hosts, such as frogs or snakes. For example, humans consume raw snakes or tadpoles for medicinal purposes in some Asian cultures; if the snakes or tadpoles are infected, the larvae may be transmitted to humans. Third, humans may acquire the infection by placing raw poultices of the second intermediate hosts on open wounds, lesions, or the eyes for medicinal or ritualistic reasons. If the poultice is infected with plerocercoid larvae, the human may become infected. According to Zunt et al., human infection most often occurs following ingestion of infected raw snake, frog, or pig, although contact with infected flesh of an intermediate host can also cause infection. The high prevalence in Korea may be explained by the ingestion of dog meat.
It is still perfectly possible to open the mouth. Submucous fibrosis. Fracture of the zygomatic arch. Other causes
Acute osteomyelitis
Ankylosis of the TMJ (fibrous or bony)
Condylar fracture or other trauma. Gaucher disease which is caused by deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase. Giant cell arteritis
Sympathomimetic drugs, such as amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDA, MDMA, MDEA, methylphenidate, ethylphenidate, and related substances. Infection
Local anesthesia (dental injections into the infratemporal fossa)
Needle prick to the medial pterygoid muscle
Oral submucous fibrosis. Radiation therapy to the head and neck. Tetanus, also called lockjaw for this reason
Malignant hyperthermia
Malaria severa
Secondary to neuroleptic drug use
Malignant otitis externa
Mumps
Peritonsillar abscess
Retropharyngeal or parapharyngeal abscess
Seizure
Stroke
Toothache

Diagnostic approach
X-ray/CT scan taken from the TMJ to see if there is any damage to the TMJ and surrounding structures. Treatment
Treatment requires treating the underlying condition with dental treatments, speech therapy for swallowing difficulty and mouth opening restrictions, physical therapy, and passive range of motion devices. Additionally, control of symptoms with pain medications (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and warm compresses may be used. Splints have been used. History
Historically, the term trismus was used to describe the early effects of tetany, also called "lockjaw". References


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