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Updated: May 29, 2026
02:30
Endoscopic Approach for Colloid Cyst Resection
Published on: May 23, 2025
Hydrocephalus in neurocysticercosis.
Hamilton Matushita1, Fernando Campos Gomes Pinto, Daniel Dante Cardeal
1Department of Neurosurgery/Pediatric Neurosurgery, Clinic Hospital, São Paulo University Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil. Matushita@uol.com.br
Summary
Cysticercosis (CC), a parasitic infection of the nervous system caused by Taenia solium, affects thousands globally. Treatment for neurocysticercosis (NCC) requires individualized approaches based on patient factors and cyst characteristics for optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Cysticercosis (CC) is a significant parasitic disease of the central nervous system.
- Caused by the larval cysts of Taenia solium, it is the most common helminthic infection of the nervous system.
- Neurocysticercosis (NCC) results in an estimated 50,000 deaths annually worldwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of cysticercosis.
- To outline current treatment strategies for neurocysticercosis.
- To identify prognostic factors influencing patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis.
- Analysis of clinical presentations based on patient demographics and cyst characteristics.
- Evaluation of treatment modalities and their efficacy.
Main Results:
- Children with CC often present with parenchymal cysts and epilepsy.
- Adults are more prone to hydrocephalus due to ventricular cysts obstructing cerebrospinal fluid flow.
- Treatment requires a personalized approach considering cyst location, viability, and host response.
Conclusions:
- Human infection with CC occurs when humans act as intermediate hosts for Taenia solium.
- Management of hydrocephalus in NCC may involve cyst removal, shunting, or endoscopic procedures.
- Prognosis in NCC is significantly influenced by the extent of infestation and shunt-related complications.
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