🧠 Chapter 349 · Cysticercosis (Taenia solium)

Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics 22nd Edition | Cysticercosis is caused by ingestion of Taenia solium (pork tapeworm) eggs (fecal-oral), leading to larval cysts (cysticerci) in tissues. Neurocysticercosis (CNS involvement) is the most common parasitic disease of the CNS. Clinical: seizures (most common), hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension. Diagnosis: neuroimaging (CT/MRI: cystic lesions with scolex, calcifications). Treatment: antiparasitics (albendazole ± praziquantel) + corticosteroids. Hydrocephalus: surgery (shunt, neuroendoscopy). Prevention: sanitation, hand hygiene, treat tapeworm carriers.