Solitary Brain Mass in a Patient with Seizures: An Unexpected Infectious Etiology

Abstract

Neurocysticercosis is a parasitosis caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium. The diagnosis is challenging as morphology on neuroimaging can be inconclusive and serology is frequently negative. We describe the case of a 24-year old Hispanic man who presented with seizures and loss of consciousness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a cystic mass in right frontal lobe. Work-up that included body computed tomography (CT) scan and Western blot serology for Echinococcus and cysticercosis was unrevealing. He underwent craniotomy with resection of the mass. Histopathology showed fragments of Taenia solium. He was treated with albendazole for 14 days. No further seizures were noted at 6-month follow-up.