Neurocysticercosis: an update on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Issue 3 (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pineda-Reyes, Roberto; White, A. Clinton
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in infectious diseases. Volume 35:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 246
• Page End: 254
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: albendazole -- neurocysticercosis -- neurosurgery -- seizures -- Taenia solium; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Review Literature -- Periodicals; 616.905
• DOI: 10.1097/QCO.0000000000000831
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0951-7375

Abstract

Abstract : Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is an important cause of neurological disease worldwide, including imported cases in nonendemic countries. Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to update information on diagnosis, management, and prevention of neurocysticercosis Recent findings: WHO and Infectious Diseases Society of America/American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene guidelines emphasize the importance of corticosteroids and antiparasitic drugs for viable parenchymal disease and single enhancing lesions. Subarachnoid NCC is associated with a high fatality rate unless optimally treated. Advances in subarachnoid NCC include use of prolonged antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory courses and the increasing use of antigen-detection and quantitative PCR assays in diagnosis and follow-up. Emerging data support the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive surgery in ventricular cases. Calcified neurocysticercosis continues to be associated with a high burden of disease. Field studies are demonstrating the feasibility of eradication using a combination of mass chemotherapy for human tapeworms and vaccination/treatment of porcine cysticercosis. Summary: NCC remains an important and challenging cause of neurological disease with significant morbidity despite advances in treatment and prevention.