**Question:** Man is both intermediate and definitive host for-

A. Schistosoma mansoni
B. Plasmodium falciparum
C. Trypanosoma brucei
D. Taenia solium

**Core Concept:** In the context of the question, we are discussing the role of humans as hosts for specific parasitic infections.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**

**Correct Answer: D. Taenia solium**

Man is considered an intermediate host for Taenia solium, a parasitic cestode (tapeworm) responsible for causing neurocysticercosis. The intermediate host, in this case, is the pig, which ingests Taenia solium eggs through contaminated food or water. The larvae then develop into cysticerci in the pig's tissues. Humans can become infected when they consume undercooked infected pork or come into contact with contaminated soil. In the human digestive tract, the cysticerci mature into adult tapeworms, which can lead to cysticercosis.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Schistosoma mansoni (Schistosomiasis): Man is an intermediate host for Schistosoma mansoni, a trematode responsible for causing urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis. Snails act as the first intermediate host, and humans become infected by coming into contact with contaminated freshwater, which harbors the cercarial larvae.

B. Plasmodium falciparum (Malaria): Man is an intermediate host for Plasmodium falciparum, an intracellular protozoan causing malaria. Anopheles mosquitoes are the vectors that transmit Plasmodium falciparum from humans to other humans, not from humans to pigs.

C. Trypanosoma brucei (Human African Trypanosomiasis): Man is an intermediate host for Trypanosoma brucei, a protozoan causing human African trypanosomiasis. In this case, nocturnal African rodents act as the intermediate host, not pigs.

**Clinical Pearls:**

**Core Concept:** Taenia solium is a parasitic cestode causing cysticercosis.

**Clinical Pearls:**

1. Cysticercosis is a zoonotic infection caused by Taenia solium larvae, which can lead to neurological manifestations, such as seizures, headaches, and focal neurological deficits.
2. In endemic areas, it is essential for medical professionals to consider cysticercosis in the differential diagnosis of unexplained seizures or neurological symptoms, particularly in individuals with a history of contact with infected pigs or ingestion of contaminated food.
3. Cysticercosis can cause the misconception of a brain tumor or abscess due to the cyst-like appearance on imaging studies.
4. Treatment for cysticercosis involves antiparasitic medications like praziquantel, which is effective against Taenia solium larvae.
5. In endemic areas, appropriate public health measures like regular deworming of pigs and improved sanitation can help control the