Which parasite is known to cause cysts in raw pork and skeletal muscle?

The parasite responsible for causing cysts in raw pork and the skeletal muscle is Trichinella spiralis. This nematode is the causative agent of trichinosis, a disease that occurs when humans consume undercooked or raw meat containing encysted larvae, particularly from pigs. Once ingested, the larvae are released in the intestines, mature, and reproduce. The newborn larvae then invade the host's skeletal muscle, where they form cysts.

The formation of these cysts is significant as they can lead to various symptoms, including gastrointestinal issues, muscle pain, and other systemic manifestations. The lifecycle of Trichinella spiralis highlights the importance of proper cooking of pork to prevent infection. While other parasites may affect animal muscle or be found in various hosts, Trichinella's specific association with cyst formation in skeletal muscle after consumption of raw or undercooked pork is a hallmark of this infection.