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Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing of Cerebrospinal Fluid for the Detection of Central Nervous System Pathogens
Published on: April 17, 2026
Cerebral sparganosis: a diagnostic challenge
S Rengarajan1, N Nanjegowda, D Bhat
1Departments of Neurosurgery & Neuropathology, National Institute of Mental Health and NeuroSciences, Bangalore, India.
British Journal of Neurosurgery
|July 29, 2008
Summary
Cerebral sparganosis, a rare parasitic brain infection, can mimic tuberculoma on imaging. Early histological diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of these Sparganum mansoni infestations, especially in tuberculosis-endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Cerebral sparganosis is a rare parasitic infection of the central nervous system caused by the larval form of the tapeworm Sparganum.
- It is often misdiagnosed due to its varied clinical presentations and imaging findings.
Observation:
- A case of a 28-year-old female from South India presenting with a temporo-occipital mass lesion is described.
- The lesion initially mimicked a tuberculoma on neuroimaging, leading to a 7-month course of antituberculous therapy.
- Despite treatment, the lesion persisted, necessitating further investigation.
Findings:
- Surgical excision of the mass revealed a parasitic abscess.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of the larval form of Sparganum mansoni, establishing the diagnosis of cerebral sparganosis.
- The findings highlight the potential for sparganosis to present as a tuberculoma-like lesion.
Implications:
- Cerebral sparganosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracranial mass lesions, particularly in endemic areas.
- In regions with a high prevalence of tuberculosis, persistent or non-responsive tuberculoma-mimicking lesions warrant thorough histopathological investigation.
- Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment and management of cerebral sparganosis, preventing potential neurological damage.
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