In simple words: Cysticercosis of the central nervous system (CNS) is an infection of the brain and spinal cord caused by the pork tapeworm. People get it from eating food or water contaminated with tapeworm eggs. Symptoms may not show up for years, but can include headaches, nausea, seizures, and problems with balance. Severe cases can cause serious problems like a stroke.

Cysticercosis of the central nervous system (CNS) is a manifestation of cysticercosis that affects the brain and spinal cord.It is caused by the pork tapeworm Taenia solium, typically transmitted by consuming contaminated food or water, or by eating with contaminated hands. Ingested eggs hatch in the intestine, enter the bloodstream, and can spread to the CNS, causing neurocysticercosis. Symptoms, which can appear months or years after infection, include headaches, nausea, vomiting, disorientation, balance problems, and seizures.Severe cases can lead to stroke or death.

Example 1: A patient presents with new-onset seizures and reports travel to an area where cysticercosis is endemic. MRI reveals cystic lesions in the brain, confirming neurocysticercosis., A patient with a history of headaches and balance problems undergoes a CT scan, which shows calcified lesions consistent with neurocysticercosis., A patient experiences chronic headaches and nausea. After extensive neurological workup, including serological testing and MRI, neurocysticercosis is diagnosed.

Documentation for neurocysticercosis should include history of exposure, symptoms, physical exam findings, laboratory results (CBC, stool exam, ELISA), and imaging findings (CT, MRI). Details of treatment, including medications and surgical interventions, should also be documented.