Intraventricular neurocysticercosis causing obstructing hydrocephalus

Abstract

Neurocysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium. Diagnostic criteria for neurocysticercosis are based on clinical manifestations, neuroimaging findings, and epidemiologic exposure. Treatment is tailored to acute symptoms. If increased intracranial pressure is present, then surgical intervention and/or corticosteroids may be used. If seizures are present, then antiepileptic drugs are used for therapy. Antiparasitic therapy is warranted for patients with viable and/or degenerating cysts in the brain parenchyma on neuroimaging. We present a case report of neurocysticercosis causing obstructive hydrocephalus requiring a ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Keywords:

• Helminthic infection
• hydrocephalus
• intraventricular neurocysticercosis
• seizures
• Taenia solium