Neurocysticercosis: A Case of an Unusual Cause of Seizures

• DOI: 10.11648/j.js.20251301.15
• Publication Date: 2025-02-22T06:37:10Z
• Authors: Kelechi Azode; Babatunde Olasode; Edward Komolafe

Neurocysticercosis is a parasitic infestation of the central nervous system caused by larva of the helminth <i>Taenia solium</i>. It is a relatively uncommon aetiology for seizures with varying presentations which are dependent on the stage of the cyst, its location and the immune response of the host. Incidence is rising in developing countries due to renewed interest in piggery. Associated risk factors include poor sanitary condition, rearing pigs or consumption of pork meat and overcrowded living conditions. Diagnostic yield has improved in recent years following relative improved health care seeking attitude, availability of neuroimaging modalities such as cranial magnetic resonance imaging and pathologic analysis of resected tissue specimen. Though prevalence has been domiciled in rural and suburban communities, an increase in global transmigration of individuals has led to some incidence in developed counties. The advent of cysticidal therapy which is complementary to surgical resection of symptomatic lesions has helped improve the prognosis and attenuate disease progression in these patients while improving clinical outcomes of treatment. We present a 23-year-old male patient with adult onset seizures who had neuroimaging and brain biopsy with histopathologic diagnosis of neurocysticercosis. The disease should be entertained in a patient with adult onset seizure residing in a potentially endemic area. We also encourage multidisciplinary management for optimal outcome.