Childhood Neurocysticersosis: A Rural Teaching Hospital Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is caused by the larval stage of Taenia Solium. Neurocysticercosis is the most common cause of acquired epilepsy in developing countries. In India NCC has been identified as a significant cause of seizures.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on 150 children of NCC up to 18 years of age in a tertiary care hospital. The diagnosis was based on clinical and laboratory/ radiological evaluation of the patients. Socio-clinical, radiological and serological data of the patients were analysed.

Results: A total of 150 children were enrolled in this study. The commonest age group of the cases in this study was six to 10 years. Male to female ratio was 1.8:1. The largest percentage of cases belonged to upper lower class (56%) and lowest was 4% in upper class. Sixty percent subjects were non vegetarian. Seizures were the most common presentation (96%). Headache was present in 44% cases. Single lesion was commonest type of lesion on radiological examination with frontal cortex as most commonly involved area of brain. Stage II NCC was commonest type of lesion on MRI. EEG was abnormal in 38% cases. Serum ELISA for cysticercosis was positive in 10% cases. Number of lesions was not associated with age group, type of seizure or any particular area of brain.

Conclusion: Stage II NCC the commonest type of NCC. Single lesion NCC was more common than multiple lesions. All cases with atypical presentation and positive ELISA had multiple lesions. Frontal portion of cortex was most commonly involved.