Brain calcification because of neurocysticercosis: a vast field to be explored.

Brain calcification because of neurocysticercosis: a vast field to be explored.
Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2020 Aug 29;:
Authors: Bustos JA, Coyle CM
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Neurocysticercosis is the most common helminthic infection of the central nervous system caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. Endemic regions include Latin American countries, sub-Saharan Africa, and large regions of Asia, including the Indian subcontinent and is a global health problem. Seizures are the most common manifestation and approximately 30% of adult-onset seizures in endemic regions are attributable to NCC. Calcifications because of neurocysticercosis is the most common finding on imaging in endemic regions and are important seizure foci contributing to the burden of epilepsy.
RECENT FINDINGS: After treatment with antiparasitics for multiple viable parenchymal disease, approximately 38% of cysts that resolved after 6 months of therapy will result in residual calcifications, which represents a significant burden of residual disease. Calcified disease has been referred to as 'inactive disease', but there is accumulating evidence to suggest that calcified granulomas are actually dynamic and substantially contribute to the development and maintenance of seizures.
SUMMARY: Calcified parenchymal neurocysticercosis contributes significantly to the development and maintenance of seizures in endemic regions. Understandi...

Source: Epilepsy Curr - August 28, 2020 Category: Neurology Authors: Bustos JA, Coyle CM Tags: Curr Opin Infect Dis Source Type: research