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Seizures and cerebral schistosomiasis
Luiz Eduardo Betting1, Clodoaldo Pirani, Luciano de Souza Queiroz
1Department of Neurology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
Archives of Neurology
|June 16, 2005
Summary
Schistosomiasis can cause partial epileptic seizures in young patients, particularly when granulomatous lesions are present. This parasitic infection should be considered in endemic areas with relevant medical history.
Area of Science:
- Neuroparasitology
- Tropical Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Schistosomiasis, caused by the parasitic worm Schistosoma mansoni, is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
- While typically affecting the liver and gastrointestinal tract, neuroschistosomiasis can occur, with transverse myelitis being the most common neurological manifestation.
- Cerebral involvement, though less common, can lead to inflammatory reactions due to S. mansoni eggs in the brain.
Observation:
- A case study of a young Brazilian patient presenting with partial epileptic seizures is described.
- The seizures were attributed to a granulomatous lesion in the brain, confirmed to be caused by Schistosoma mansoni.
Findings:
- The study highlights a rare presentation of neuroschistosomiasis.
- Epileptic seizures were the primary neurological symptom, linked to a specific S. mansoni-induced granuloma.
Implications:
- Schistosomiasis should be included in the differential diagnosis for seizures in individuals from or with a history of endemic areas.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of granulomatous lesions in patients with a relevant epidemiological background warrant consideration of schistosomiasis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of neuroschistosomiasis can prevent severe neurological sequelae.