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Adult Toxocara canis encephalitis
C Sommer1, E B Ringelstein, R Biniek
1Neurologische Klinik und Medizinische Klinik II, Klinikum der RWTH Aachen, Germany.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Toxocara canis infection in a 48-year-old caused severe neurological symptoms. Combined immunosuppressive therapy with anthelminthics partially reversed central nervous system damage.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Toxocara canis infection can cause visceral larva migrans.
- Neurological involvement is a rare but severe manifestation of Toxocara canis infection.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old patient presented with severe ataxia, rigor, and neuropsychological disturbances.
- Imaging revealed white matter lesions (CT/MRI) and middle cerebral artery branch occlusions (angiography).
Findings:
- Indirect immunofluorescence confirmed Toxocara canis infection.
- Anthelminthic treatment showed initial benefit but did not halt central nervous system (CNS) symptom progression.
- Combined immunosuppressive therapy (prednisolone, azathioprine) led to partial recovery and stabilization.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe neurological complications from Toxocara canis.
- Aggressive treatment combining antiparasitic and immunosuppressive therapies may be necessary for managing CNS toxocariasis.
- Further research into the neuroinflammatory mechanisms of Toxocara canis infection is warranted.