NEUROCYSTICERCOSIS IN CHILDHOOD

Neurocysticercosis is the most frequent parasitosis of the central ner vous system in the world Due to the extension of the pandemy, and the importance of the migrations from endemic countries, this parasitosis is being diagnosed with increasing frequency in France. Epilepsy is th e main revealing symptom. However, in endemic countries, neurocysticer cosis should be suspected in patients with any neurological sign. Diag nosis is based upon imaging procedures (computed tomography and magnet ic resonance imaging) and serology (Elisa and Western blot). The evolu tion is highly variable, from complete latency to severe encephalopath y with psychomotor regression. Praziquantel and albendazole are the ma in therapeutic agents. Although corticosteroids are usually very effec tive on symptoms of the acute phase of the disease, their place in the treatment remains to be clarified Racemic and ventricular forms of th e disease usually need neurosurgery. In endemic regions, the diminutio n of the frequency of the disease relies upon prevention through healt h education compaigns, pending the achievement of an efficient vaccine .