Brain alveococcosis. Therapeutic experience in 14 cases

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Brain alveococcosis is a rare and dangerous parasitic infection.
• It often presents as a late-stage metastasis from liver or lung infections.
• Cases can be primary or secondary, with varied clinical presentations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the characteristics and treatment outcomes of brain alveococcosis.
• To evaluate the efficacy of surgical extirpation and medical management.
• To understand the radiological changes associated with treatment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 14 brain alveococcosis cases.
• Review of treatment modalities including surgery and albendazole.
• Assessment of cerebral function using BEAM (Brain Electrical Activity Mapping) and CT scans.

Main Results:

• Out of 14 cases, 8 were secondary and 6 primary.
• Surgical extirpation was performed in 9 cases, showing improved cerebral function.
• Long-term albendazole treatment resulted in calcified lesions on CT and symptom disappearance.

Conclusions:

• Surgical extirpation is a radical and effective treatment for brain alveococcosis.
• Long-term albendazole therapy can lead to favorable radiological and clinical outcomes.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing this rare neurological disease.