Abstract

ALVAREZ-RODRIGUEZ, E. et al. Neurocysticercosis: report of three cases and recommendations of treatment. An. Med. Interna (Madrid) [online]. 2004, vol.21, n.8, pp.24-28. ISSN 0212-7199.

Neurocysticercosis is a pathology that we are finding nowadays over the immigrant population. It is produced by the Taenia solium parasite when it encyst into the central nervous system. The most frequent clinic is the focal crisis though it can come up as a general crisis; hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension and even encephalitis can also happen. Its diagnosis is mainly based on imaging methods. The treatment is still controversial and must be individualized. The indication of antiparasitic drugs like albendazole and praziquantel has to be considered depending on the viability of the parasite, the number of cysts and their localization. If a cyst grows up the treatment is always recommended. In the case of an intracranial hypertension arises, this has to be treated before initiating any other action against the parasitic disease. Antiepileptic drugs are necessary to treat the symptoms. In some cases it is also recommended the use of steroids before and during the administration of antiparasitic therapy and even independently on their own.

Keywords : Cysticercosis; Neurocysticercosis; Cestode; Taenia solium; Epilepsy; Antiparasitic drugs; Albendazole; Praziquantel.

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