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Abstract:
Cerebral sparganosis is caused by the migrating larva of Spirometra mansonoides. Only seven cases have been reported worldwide. We here report the second known case in the United States. Including our case, ages ranged from 24 to 46 years. Men and women were equally affected. Headache, convulsions, focal neurologic signs, and peripheral eosinophilia were common. CT often revealed an enhancing mass. Surgical resection of the parasitic granuloma gave excellent results. often revealed an enhancing mass. Surgical resection of the parasitic granuloma gave excellent results.
Insights
Cerebral sparganosis, a rare brain infection by Spirometra mansonoides larva, is exceptionally uncommon in the US. Surgical removal of the parasitic granuloma offers excellent outcomes for this serious neurological condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Cerebral sparganosis is a rare parasitic infection of the brain caused by the migrating larva of Spirometra mansonoides.
- Worldwide, only seven cases have been documented, highlighting its extreme rarity.
Observation:
- This report details the second known case of cerebral sparganosis in the United States.
- The patient, within an age range of 24-46 years, presented with common symptoms including headache, convulsions, and focal neurologic deficits.
- Peripheral eosinophilia was noted, and computed tomography (CT) scans frequently showed an enhancing intracranial mass.
Findings:
- The study confirms the rarity of cerebral sparganosis, with this case being the second reported in the US.
- Clinical presentation commonly includes neurological symptoms and peripheral eosinophilia.
- Diagnostic imaging, particularly CT, is valuable in identifying the characteristic enhancing mass.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare parasitic infections in the differential diagnosis of neurological disorders.
- Prompt surgical resection of the parasitic granuloma is an effective treatment, leading to excellent patient outcomes.
- Further awareness and reporting are crucial for understanding the epidemiology and clinical spectrum of cerebral sparganosis.