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Neurocysticercosis in children
Pratibha Singhi1, Sunit Singhi
1Department of Pediatrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. drsinghi@glide.net.in
Journal of Child Neurology
|November 6, 2004
Summary
Neurocysticercosis, a leading cause of neurologic disease, often presents as seizures in children. While imaging confirms diagnosis, long-term seizure control with cysticidal therapy remains uncertain.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Neurocysticercosis is a significant global cause of neurological disorders.
- Clinical manifestations vary based on cyst location and stage within the nervous system.
- Seizures are the predominant symptom in over 80% of affected children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of neurocysticercosis in children.
- To review the current evidence regarding the efficacy of cysticidal therapy for neurocysticercosis.
- To emphasize the importance of considering neurocysticercosis in the differential diagnosis of pediatric neurological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations, diagnostic imaging (CT/MRI), and treatment strategies for neurocysticercosis.
- Analysis of controlled studies evaluating cysticidal therapy and long-term seizure control.
- Assessment of prognostic factors based on lesion number and location.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis relies on neuroimaging, with single enhancing lesions and visualization of a scolex being common findings.
- Anticonvulsants are standard treatment; corticosteroids are used for cerebral edema.
- Evidence suggests cysticidal therapy aids lesion resolution but lacks conclusive proof for improved long-term seizure control.
Conclusions:
- Neurocysticercosis requires consideration in pediatric seizure workups, especially in endemic regions.
- Prognosis is generally good for single lesions with effective anticonvulsant management.
- Multiple lesions or extraparenchymal involvement in children portend a poorer prognosis and recurrent seizures.