CT-guided aspiration of a cysticercotic thalamic cyst

Removal of either parenchymal or intraventricular cysts in neurocysticercosis has traditionally necessitated operative intervention with its concomitant morbidity and mortality (L. Stepien and J. Chorobski, Arch Neurol Psychiat Chicago 1949;61:499-527; L. Stepien, J. Neurosurg 1962;19:505-13). To our knowledge, percutaneous parenchymal cyst aspiration to reduce mass effect has not been previously reported. We describe a case of successful CT-guided percutaneous thalamic cyst puncture and aspiration to reduce both obstructive hydrocephalus and raised intracranial pressure.