diagnosis
Last reviewed 01/2022
This diagnosis should be suspected in an individual who has lived in a hyperendemic area and has developed neurological or ocular symptoms.
Diagnosis:
- established after biopsy of subcutaneous nodules (that occur in 50%) and demonstration of the characteristic translucent membrane.
- may also be made as a result of biopsy of brain or skin.
Radiological studies:
- may show calcification in soft tissues that is typical of late cysticercosis.
- brain lesions may be identified using CT or MRI which may appear as calcified or cystic or nodular lesions.
ELISA of CSF and serum:
- provides a serologic test for diagnosis of cystercosis. Note though that cross-infective antibodies may occur in patients with other infections.