Neurocysticercosis: an update on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

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.