Cysticercosis in the head and neck region – Report of four clinical cases

To describe four clinical cases of cysticercosis affecting the head and neck region, highlighting their clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, treatment strategies, and outcomes. Four patients diagnosed with cysticercosis in the head and neck region were included: three males aged 60, 30, and 14 years, and one 17-year-old female. The patients presented with nodular lesions in different cervicofacial locations, with one case associated with disseminated cutaneous eruptions. Diagnostic imaging exams and fine-needle aspiration cytology were performed, allowing the identification of structures compatible with Taenia sp ., which confirmed the diagnosis of cysticercosis. All patients received pharmacological treatment with ivermectin, albendazole, and praziquantel. Clinical outcomes varied, and surgical intervention was required in three cases for lesion resolution and diagnostic confirmation. The reported cases illustrate the heterogeneity of clinical manifestations of cysticercosis in the head and neck region and reinforce the importance of combining clinical evaluation, imaging exams, and cytological analysis for accurate diagnosis. Although antiparasitic therapy plays a fundamental role, surgical management may be necessary in selected cases, especially for localized lesions or when diagnostic uncertainty persists. These case reports contribute to the understanding of cysticercosis in the head and neck region and emphasize the need for an integrated diagnostic and therapeutic approach to achieve favorable clinical outcomes.