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Parasitic lesion of the insula suggesting cerebral sparganosis: case report
T J Cummings1, J F Madden, L Gray
1Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Abstract:
Cerebral sparganosis, a parasitic disease, rarely produces a chronic active inflammatory response in the brain. Clinically and radiographically the process may mimic a neoplasm. We report a 30-year-old man who underwent surgical exploration for a mass in the insular cortex. Histology revealed a densely fibrotic mass heavily infiltrated with plasma cells and lymphocytes, in which were embedded parasitic forms consistent with sparganosis. We describe the MRI appearances and pathologic features. Intracranial mass lesions secondary to sparganosis must be considered in patients with a history of travel to endemic areas, especially Asia.
Insights
Cerebral sparganosis, a rare parasitic brain infection, can mimic tumors. This case highlights its distinct inflammatory and pathological features, emphasizing diagnostic considerations for travelers.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Cerebral sparganosis is a rare parasitic infection of the brain.
- It infrequently causes a chronic active inflammatory response.
- The condition can present with clinical and radiographic features mimicking a brain neoplasm.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old man presented with an insular cortex mass.
- Surgical exploration revealed a densely fibrotic mass.
- Histopathology showed extensive plasma cell and lymphocyte infiltration with parasitic forms.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates the characteristic MRI appearances of cerebral sparganosis.
- Pathologic examination confirmed parasitic forms consistent with sparganosis.
- The inflammatory response was notable for dense plasma cell and lymphocyte infiltration.
Implications:
- Cerebral sparganosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracranial masses.
- A history of travel to endemic areas, particularly Asia, is a key epidemiological factor.
- Recognition of these features aids in accurate diagnosis and management of sparganosis.