[Intro]
What cha been eatin’, boy
Careful (what your chops enjoy)
[Verse 1]
Due to neglect
Its larvae infect
What the heck!
Check! (above the neck)
[Bridge]
What cha been eatin’, boy
Careful (what your chops enjoy)
[Chorus]
Neurocysticercosis
(Is that what this is?)
Can you foresee
(Acquired epilepsy)
[Verse 2]
Prognoses:
(This is a psychosis)
Oh, dread!
(Brain dead)
[Bridge]
What cha been eatin’, boy
Careful (what your chops enjoy)
Have you heard what I’ve said
(Went straight to your head)
[Chorus]
Neurocysticercosis
(Is that what this is?)
Can you foresee
(Acquired epilepsy)
[Outro]
Your eatin’ is defeatin’, boy
Have you heard what I’ve said?
(Went straight to your head)
A SCIENCE NOTE
Several parasites can influence human mental health, leading to symptoms that may be perceived as “going crazy.” Notable examples include:
Toxoplasma gondii: This protozoan parasite infects about one-third of the global population. While often asymptomatic, it has been linked to various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and intermittent explosive disorder. Research suggests that T. gondii can alter brain chemistry, potentially contributing to these conditions.
Trypanosoma brucei: Responsible for African trypanosomiasis, or “sleeping sickness,” this parasite is transmitted by tsetse flies in sub-Saharan Africa. Early symptoms include fever and headaches, but as the infection progresses, it can invade the central nervous system, leading to neurological and psychiatric manifestations such as confusion, personality changes, and psychosis. Without treatment, the disease is often fatal.
Taenia solium: The pork tapeworm can cause neurocysticercosis when its larvae infect the human central nervous system. This condition is a leading cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide and can also result in cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, and psychosis.
It’s important to note that while these parasites can have profound effects on mental health, such cases are relatively rare. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as proper handwashing, cooking meat thoroughly, and avoiding areas known for specific parasitic diseases, can help reduce the risk of infection.
If someone exhibits sudden or unexplained psychiatric symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause.