Neurocysticercosis is a condition caused by the larva of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) becoming encysted in human brain tissue. It is most common in developing countries where sanitation is poor and pigs have access to human feces. Common symptoms include seizures, focal neurological deficits, increased intracranial pressure, and hydrocephalus. Diagnosis involves history, physical exam, CT/MRI imaging, and stool studies. Treatment consists of antiparasitic medications like praziquantel or albendazole as well as surgery for complications like hydrocephalus. Nursing care focuses on monitoring for increased intracranial pressure and seizures while providing patient education.

1. By,
Ms. Ekta S Patel
II Year M.Sc Nursing
MSN(Neuroscience)

2. Introduction:

3. • Neurocysticercosis is most common parasitic disease of
nervous system and it is main cause of acquired
epilepsy in developing countries.
• Neurocysticercosis can be acquired via fecal-oral
contact with carries adult tape worm Taenia solium. This
usually indicates the presence of tap worm carrier in
immediate environment or by accidental ingestion of
contaminated food.

4. Definition:

5. • NCC is the condition in which results from
encystment of the larva of T.Solium, the pork
tapeworm in the tissue of the brain.

6. Epidemiology:

7. • NCC is most frequent neurological disorders in
several countries of Latin America, Africa and Asia.
• Its relevance to socioeconomic factors and feeding
habits.
• It is almost unnoticed in Muslims as Quran
prohibits the consumption of pork.

8. • It is endemic in areas, where pork is massively
consumed.
• In Asia this conditions most disease, but its
prevalence is still underestimated because of lack
of diagnostic facilities in rural areas, where the
reported cases only represent the tip of the
iceberg.
• CNS involvement occurs in 50-70% of all cases.

9. Clinical Manifestation:

10. • Seizures.
• Focal neurological signs: pyramidal tract sign,
sensory deficits, cerebellar ataxia, sign of brain
stem dysfunction, involuntary movement.
• Increased intracranial pressure.
• Hydrocephalus.

11. • Encephalitis.
• Psychotic reaction.
• Diffuse muscle involvement may result in pseudo
hypertrophic myopathy swelling and hypertrophy of
muscle.

12. Diagnostic evaluation:

13. • History collection
• Physical examination
• CT Scan and MRI
• Stool studies

14. Management:

15. • Before the treatment the viability of cyst and
location of parasite is to be confirmed. Treatment
consist of:
• Symptomatic
• Specific anticysticercus agent
• Surgical treatment

16. Pharmacological management:
• Praziquantel 25 mg/kg every
2 hours per day
• Albendazole 15 mg/kg of 1
month.

17. Surgical management:
• For patient with hydrocephalus
secondary to cysticercosis
ventricular shunt is done.
• Freely mobile ventricular cyst may
be removed by surgical excision or
endoscopic aspiration.

18. Nursing management:
• Observe patient’s condition, vital
signs and symptoms of increased
intracranial pressure.
• Provide seizures precaution.
• Anticipate behavioural change and
observe for it.
• Give health education about the
disease condition, treatment and
prevention.

19. Complication:

20. • Seizure
• Stroke
• Vision changes
• Cognitive problems
• Death

21. Summary

23. Thank you