Consumption of uncooked pork is likely to cause which of the following helminthic disease?
**Core Concept**
Trichinosis is a helminthic disease caused by the ingestion of undercooked or raw pork infected with the parasitic worm *Trichinella spiralis*. The disease is characterized by muscle pain, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The consumption of uncooked pork containing *Trichinella spiralis* cysts leads to the parasite's encysted larvae being released in the small intestine, where they penetrate the intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream. The larvae then migrate to the muscles, where they encyst and mature, causing the characteristic symptoms of trichinosis. This process is facilitated by the enzyme trypsin, which is found in the intestinal juice and helps to break down the cysts.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Toxoplasmosis is a protozoal disease caused by *Toxoplasma gondii*, which is typically acquired through the ingestion of undercooked meat, especially lamb and venison, or through contact with contaminated cat feces.
**Option B:** Anisakiasis is a helminthic disease caused by the ingestion of raw or undercooked fish infected with the parasitic worm *Anisakis simplex*. It is characterized by abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
**Option C:** Echinococcosis is a helminthic disease caused by the ingestion of eggs from the tapeworm *Echinococcus granulosus*, which is typically acquired through contact with contaminated dog feces or by consuming contaminated water.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
To prevent trichinosis, it is essential to cook pork to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to kill the *Trichinella spiralis* cysts.
**Correct Answer:** C. Echinococcosis is a helminthic disease caused by the ingestion of eggs from the tapeworm *Echinococcus granulosus*, which is typically acquired through contact with contaminated dog feces or by consuming contaminated water.