Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 4, 2025
07:07
Endoscopy Guided Photoablation of Endometrial Cysts using a 980 nm Laser with a Contact Fiber in Mares
Published on: July 16, 2020
4.5K
Neurocysticercosis Complicating Pregnancy
F Gary Cunningham1, Diane M Twickler
1Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|July 19, 2022
Summary
Neurocysticercosis, a central nervous system infection, can affect pregnant women, causing symptoms like seizures and headaches. Treatment is often successful, but some cases require surgery, with most pregnancies resulting in healthy neonates.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Neurocysticercosis results from pork tapeworm cysts in the central nervous system.
- Parenchymal brain infections can lead to severe neurological symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical course and outcomes of neurocysticercosis in pregnant women.
Main Methods:
- A case series of 37 pregnant women diagnosed with neurocysticercosis between 1994 and 2016.
- Review of medical records, neuroimaging (CT/MRI), and classification using 2018 IDSA/ASTMH criteria.
Main Results:
- 32 of 37 women were symptomatic, with headaches and seizures being common.
- Anthelmintics (albendazole, praziquantel) with anticonvulsants/corticosteroids were primary treatments.
- Eight women underwent neurosurgery; 32 healthy neonates were born, with four pregnancy losses.
Conclusions:
- Neurocysticercosis in pregnancy can range from asymptomatic to severe neurological deficits.
- Anthelmintic therapy is generally effective, though neurosurgery may be needed for hydrocephalus.
- Most pregnancies result in healthy outcomes despite the infection.
