Monsters Inside Me (2009)
S01E04 Masters of Disguise
Episode Overview
Parasites are merciless, single-minded, and incredibly cunning. Their ability to thrive as some of the most widespread life forms is a testament to their deceptive nature. This episode introduces viewers to the "Masters of Disguise," showcasing the most cunning parasites in existence. Teen Mallorie Greiner is diagnosed with Acanthamoeba keratitis, a parasite that threatens her cornea, initially confusing doctors who mistake her symptoms for herpes. Meanwhile, runner Rick DiMichele faces a crippling illness that doctors misdiagnose as cancer or malaria, until they finally identify it as Babesiosis, a disease carried by ticks. Lastly, Mohammed Meah's doctors only uncover the true culprit behind his health crisis— a parasitic worm named Strongyloides—after he has been battling severe symptoms while on steroids for his colitis.