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Albendazole therapy for neurocysticercosis
P C Sanchetee1, S Venkataraman, R M Dhamija
1Armed Forces Medical College, Pune.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|February 1, 1994
Summary
This study evaluated Albendazole for neurocysticercosis, finding it effective for parenchymal cases. While slow-acting, Albendazole offers a viable alternative to praziquantel for managing this parasitic brain infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Neurocysticercosis is a significant cause of epilepsy and neurological disorders.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on clinical, radiological (CT), and histopathological findings.
- Parenchymal neurocysticercosis presents with diverse neurological syndromes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy and safety of Albendazole in treating parenchymal neurocysticercosis.
- To evaluate treatment outcomes using serial computed tomography (CT) scans.
- To compare Albendazole as an alternative to praziquantel.
Main Methods:
- Clinical evaluation and brain CT scans were used for diagnosis in 30 cases.
- Histopathological confirmation of subcutaneous cysticerci was obtained in 12 cases.
- Albendazole (15 mg/kg/day for 30 days) was administered without prophylactic steroids.
Main Results:
- Epilepsy was the most common neurological syndrome (22 cases).
- CT follow-up showed complete lesion regression in 2 cases, partial in 14, and morphological changes in 4.
- Transient subcutaneous cysticerci appeared in 4 cases as a side effect.
Conclusions:
- Albendazole demonstrates efficacy in managing parenchymal neurocysticercosis, albeit with a slower onset of action.
- It is a suitable alternative to praziquantel for medical treatment.
- Monitoring for side effects like transient cysticerci is important.
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