Neuroparasitic infections: imaging features and diagnostic algorithms.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Neuroparasitic infections pose a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by international travel, climate change, and rising immunosuppression.
• These infections affect the central nervous system (CNS), necessitating accurate and timely diagnosis for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of 12 leading neuroparasitic infections affecting the CNS.
• To illustrate key radiologic findings and diagnostic approaches for these diverse disorders.
• To offer a practical flowchart for differentiating neuroparasitic entities based on integrated clinical and imaging data.

Main Methods:

• International collaboration of radiologists across multiple continents.
• Literature review focusing on geographic distribution, life cycles, diagnostic testing, and imaging findings.
• Inclusion of exemplary radiologic cases for 12 specific neuroparasitic infections.

Main Results:

• Detailed descriptions of 12 neuroparasitic infections including amoebiasis, trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, toxoplasmosis, paragonimiasis, neurocysticercosis, hydatidosis, sparganosis, angiostrongyliasis, gnathostomiasis, toxocariasis, and myiasis.
• Emphasis on the role of non-invasive medical imaging, exposure history, and laboratory testing in diagnosis.
• Presentation of a master flowchart to aid in distinguishing these infections.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis of neuroparasitic infections requires a multidisciplinary approach integrating clinical, laboratory, and imaging data.
• Timely diagnosis and appropriate therapy are crucial for improving patient outcomes in neuroparasitic CNS diseases.
• This review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians and radiologists managing these complex infections.