UCL Discovery
UCL home » Library Services » Electronic resources » UCL Discovery

Neurocysticercosis: current diagnostic and treatment paradigms

Singh, Gagandeep; Chomba, Mashina; Sander, Josemir W; (2025) Neurocysticercosis: current diagnostic and treatment paradigms. Current Opinion in Neurology , 38 (4) pp. 380-387. 10.1097/WCO.0000000000001396.

[thumbnail of NCC_final_cleaned_15052025.pdf] Text
NCC_final_cleaned_15052025.pdf - Accepted Version
Access restricted to UCL open access staff until 2 August 2026.

Download (1MB)

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Neurocysticercosis, the infestation of the human central nervous system by Taenia solium cysts, accounts for a significant burden of neurological disorders in endemic regions. It is a neglected tropical disease and, hence, often overlooked. However, its importance is underscored by the high burden of epilepsy in endemic regions and many imported cases in nonendemic areas. Given recent epidemiological shifts and advances in diagnosis and treatment, a new focus on neurocysticercosis is required. RECENT FINDINGS: While South & Central America remain endemic, sub-Saharan Africa has emerged as a newly recognized hotspot. Recent developments include the potential for antigen-based assays to facilitate 'point of care' diagnosis and treatment monitoring, the combination of antiparasitic regimens, and a newer antiparasitic agent, oxfendazole, currently in clinical trial. SUMMARY: Recent developments offer significant hope. Wider access to neuroimaging, improved serological tests including antigen assays, and novel therapeutic strategies such as combination antiparasitic treatment have improved outcomes. Ultimately, however, a concerted prevention strategy incorporating diverse approaches will be crucial in reducing the global burden of neurological disorders associated with neurocysticercosis.

Type: Article
Title: Neurocysticercosis: current diagnostic and treatment paradigms
Location: England
DOI: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000001396
Publisher version: http://doi.org/10.1097/WCO.0000000000001396
Language: English
Additional information: This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions.
Keywords: Cysticercosis, epilepsy, seizures, serology, treatment, Humans, Neurocysticercosis, Animals, Taenia solium, Antiparasitic Agents
UCL classification: UCL
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences > UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences > UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology > Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy
URI: https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10211135
Downloads since deposit
1Download
Download activity - last month
Download activity - last 12 months
Downloads by country - last 12 months

Archive Staff Only

View Item View Item