Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat

Suspected parasitic infection and blood test values?

Hello, on October 1st, I consumed a steak that was not cooked to the required doneness (I requested medium, but some parts were rare to medium-rare).
I am concerned about parasites (specifically, tapeworms) and have since been suspicious of any undercooked meat (mainly pork and beef).
On October 5th, I experienced one episode of diarrhea, but my bowel movements returned to normal afterward.
On October 8th, I visited a hospital for a stool examination, using a standard smear and the Modified Formalin-Ether Concentration technique for detecting parasites, which yielded no findings.
I also experienced headaches upon waking, with pain localized above the right temple (pain score approximately 3-4).
I initially thought it would resolve as usual after half a day, but the headache has persisted, currently at a pain score of about 1-2, alternating sides, and sometimes accompanied by pain behind the same side's eye socket.
On October 17th, I went to a certified laboratory for another stool examination using the same Modified Formalin-Ether Concentration technique, which again showed no findings.
On October 22nd, I visited the hospital's neurology department for my headache, and an EEG was performed.
On October 24th, I discovered subcutaneous lumps, approximately 5mm in size, on the upper thigh and under the chin, which were soft and non-tender.
On October 25th, I had another EEG and consulted an infectious disease specialist for blood tests (this was not recommended by the neurologist; I sought this out due to my concerns).
The blood test results are as follows, and I will follow up at my next appointment:
- Hematocrit: 47.1% [42][52]
- Hemoglobin: 16.2 g/dL [14][18]
- MCH: 30.3 pg [26][34]
- MCHC: 34.4 g/dL [30][36]
- MCV: 88.0 fL [81][97]
- Platelet count: 192 *10^3/uL [130][400]
- RBC: 5.35 *10^6/uL [4.7][6.1]
- WBC: 5.66 *10^3/uL [4][10]
- Basophils: 0.7% [0][1]
- Eosinophils: 1.2% [0][7]
- Lymphocytes: 15.5% [20][45]
- Monocytes: 3.7% [2][10]
- Neutrophils: 78.9% [40][75]
- Blood Urea Nitrogen: 9 mg/dL [8][25]
- Creatinine: 0.95 mg/dL [0.63][1.3]
- eGFR: 94.4 mL/min/1.73m² [nil][nil]
- Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase: 19 IU/L [5][35]
- Serum Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase: 24 IU/L [5][35]
- C-reactive protein (immunoturbidimetric method): 0.035 mg/dL [0][0.5]
- Immunoglobulin E: 207.00 IU/mL [0][87]
The highlighted values indicate elevated neutrophils at 78.9% [40][75] and significantly elevated Immunoglobulin E at 207.00 IU/mL [0][87], while lymphocytes are low at 15.5% [20][45].

I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
Can pork tapeworms be killed through freezing? Most online information only states that beef tapeworms can be killed this way, without mentioning pork tapeworms.
2.
What is the average time frame for symptoms of pork tapeworm cysticercosis to occur after ingestion, as the larvae spread throughout the body, including muscles and the brain?
3.
Regarding the abnormal blood test values, I have a long history of allergic rhinitis and have shown elevated IgE levels in response to egg yolk (previous allergy testing).
Could this account for the abnormal values? Since my eosinophil count is within the normal range, should I be less concerned about the possibility of parasites?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/25

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, 1.
The pork tapeworm can also be killed by freezing.
2.
Each individual's condition varies significantly, ranging from a few months to several years.
3.
Based on your clinical symptoms and blood test results, it currently does not appear to be a parasitic infection.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/10/25

More Info

When it comes to concerns about parasites and blood test results after consuming undercooked meat, particularly beef and pork, there are several important factors to consider.
Firstly, regarding your question about whether pork tapeworms can be killed through freezing, the answer is yes. Freezing pork at -4°F (-20°C) for at least 7 days can effectively kill the larvae of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium). This is similar to the guidelines for beef tapeworms, which also require freezing to eliminate the risk of infection. However, it's crucial to ensure that the meat is uniformly frozen at the appropriate temperature for the specified duration to ensure safety.

Secondly, concerning the symptoms of pork tapeworm infection, known as cysticercosis, these can manifest anywhere from a few weeks to several months after ingestion of the larvae. Symptoms depend on where the larvae migrate in the body. If they reach the brain, they can cause neurological symptoms, while if they settle in muscles, they may cause localized pain or swelling. It’s essential to monitor for any unusual symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if they arise.

Regarding your blood test results, the elevated levels of eosinophils and immunoglobulin E (IgE) can indicate an allergic response or parasitic infection. However, since your eosinophil count is within the normal range, this may suggest that there is no active parasitic infection at this time. Eosinophils are often elevated in response to parasitic infections, but they can also rise due to allergic reactions, which you mentioned you have a history of, particularly with egg yolks.
The elevated neutrophil percentage could indicate a response to an infection or inflammation, but it is not specific to parasitic infections. The normal white blood cell count overall suggests that there is no acute infection present.
Given your concerns about potential parasitic infections, it is wise to continue monitoring your health. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as persistent headaches, abdominal pain, or gastrointestinal disturbances, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation.
In summary, while your initial tests for parasites came back negative, it’s important to remain vigilant about your health, especially after consuming undercooked meat. If you have ongoing symptoms or concerns, consider discussing them with a healthcare provider who can recommend further testing or treatment if necessary. Regular follow-ups and communication with your healthcare team are key to ensuring your well-being.

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