Distinctive MRI findings in a case of neurocysticercosis.
OBJECTIVE
To report a case of cerebral neurocysticercosis, in which cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at the time of probable death of the cysticercus.


METHODS
A 15-year-old Indian boy with a focal seizure disorder presented with a low-grade fever and an increase in seizure frequency. Cranial MRI scanning demonstrated a small, cortically based nodule surrounded by a low-intensity ring and extensive oedema.


RESULTS
Carbamazepine therapy was continued (without steroids) and a further MRI scan after one month showed resolution of the oedema, and a subsequent cranial CT scan showed calcification of the cortically based nodule. Praziquantel therapy was administered.


CONCLUSIONS
Diagnosis of neurocysticercosis must often rely upon clinical and distinctive radiological findings. Death of the cysticercus may provoke an inflammatory reaction that may result in an increase in seizure frequency.
Silbert
P L
PL
Department of Neurology, Royal Perth Hospital, WA.
Gubbay
S S
SS
Khangure
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000469:parasitology; D003551:Cysticercosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004660:Encephalitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed