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Neurocysticercosis presenting with psychosis
S K Mahajan1, P C Machhan, B R Sood
1Department of Medicine, Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla, HP - 171 001.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|April 26, 2005
Summary
Neurocysticercosis, a parasitic infection by pork tapeworm larvae, can cause psychosis and seizures. This case highlights a rare presentation of neurocysticercosis initially treated as psychosis before seizure onset confirmed the diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Cysticercosis is caused by the tapeworm Taenia solium larvae.
- Neurocysticercosis is the most common cause of epilepsy globally.
- Psychosis is a rare manifestation, affecting up to 5% of patients.
Observation:
- A 25-year-old male presented with psychosis for one year.
- He later developed generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
- Brain CT revealed multiple calcified and hypodense lesions.
Findings:
- Histopathology of a subcutaneous nodule confirmed neurocysticercosis.
- This confirmed the parasitic infection as the cause of his neurological and psychiatric symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering neurocysticercosis in patients with unexplained psychosis and seizures.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of neurocysticercosis are crucial for managing neurological and psychiatric manifestations.
- Raising awareness among clinicians about rare presentations of neurocysticercosis can improve patient outcomes.