Comprehensive analysis of clinical, radiological profiles, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up outcomes in pediatric neurocysticercosis patients: a retrospective observational study.

INTRODUCTION

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a parasitic infection of the central nervous system caused by the ingestion of Taenia solium eggs, typically through the consumption of undercooked pork or contaminated water. Recognized as a leading preventable cause of epilepsy, NCC poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing nations such as India. This retrospective observational study aimed to investigate the clinical manifestations, radiological characteristics, diagnostic approaches, therapeutic interventions, and follow-up outcomes of pediatric patients diagnosed with NCC.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical and radiological profiles, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of NCC in children through a retrospective analysis of medical records.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients aged 0-12 years with a confirmed NCC diagnosis on basis of clinical features, computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans etc. Patients with incomplete medical records or those who did not receive appropriate treatment were excluded. The extracted data included demographic details, clinical symptoms, radiological findings, diagnostic tests, treatment regimens, and follow-up information. Statistical analyses were performed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with a p-value of < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The study included 18 participants with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.6 and an average age of 7.9 years. Convulsions were the most common symptom (94.44%), followed by headache (16.66%), vomiting (22.22%), and fever (11.11%). Among the patients, 44.44% followed a nonvegetarian diet, whereas 55.56% were vegetarians. The most commonly prescribed antiepileptic medications were phenytoin, levetiracetam, and valproate. the most frequently affected brain regions were the frontal (33.33%) and parietal (27.78%) lobes, followed by the temporal and occipital regions. Statistical analyses revealed a significant association (p < 0.05) between generalized seizures and multiple lesions.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights convulsions as the predominant symptom of NCC in pediatric patients. Given its high prevalence in endemic areas, early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for improving patient outcomes. Further research with larger cohorts is recommended to validate these findings and enhance treatment strategies.