Under seize: neurocysticercosis in an immigrant woman and review of a growing neglected disease

Abstract

Summary Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a significantly neglected tropical disease and, with increasing globalisation, a notable emerging infection in the developed world. We describe a case of ventricular NCC in a 22-year-old Mexican-American woman with a history of seizures, who presented with 2 weeks of headaches and intermittent fevers progressing to altered mental status and vomiting. Initial imaging revealed a cystic mass at the posteroinferior aspect of the third ventricle superior to the aqueduct of Sylvius, calcifications scattered throughout the parenchyma, and enlargement of the lateral and third ventricles. Initial laboratories were unrevealing and serum investigations for Taenia solium antibody were negative, but T. solium antibody was subsequently returned positive from cerebrospinal fluid. This case highlights important issues regarding the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation and treatment of NCC relevant to providers not only in areas with endemic disease but, importantly, in locales with diverse immigrant populations.

Cerebral cysticercosis mimicking subarachnoid hemorrhage: a case report

“…Other symptoms mainly were movement disorder, nausea, and vomiting. Most patients presented with epileptic seizures [ 18 , 19 ], but our case did not. A review showed that over 50% of patients with subarachnoid cerebral cysticercosis have imaging evidence of vasculitis [ 20 ].…”

Cerebral Cysticercosis Mimicking Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Case Report

“…Other symptoms mainly were movement disorder, nausea and vomiting. Most patients presented with epileptic seizures [16,17], but our case did not. A review showed over 50% of patients with subarachnoid cerebral cysticercosis have imaging evidence of vasculitis [18].…”

Recurrent neurocysticercosis of the frontal lobe. Case report

“…(5) In 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) listed NCC as an unattended zoonosis in permanent expansion, thus turning it into a serious public health issue in developed countries due to migratory phenomena. (3,6) Flórez-Sánchez et al (7) found that the prevalence of seropositivity for cysticercosis varies in the Colombian population (0.53-40.19%) and that the Vaupés department has the highest seroprevalence rates.…”