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Dhar A, Dua S, Singh H. Isolated Intramedullary Lumbar Spine Neurocysticercosis: A Rare Occurrence and Review of Literature. Surg J (N Y) 2021; 7:e327-e336. [PMID: 34926816 PMCID: PMC8674092 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1739118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common parasitic infection of the central nervous system. Spinal cysticercosis is a rather rare clinical occurrence. Intramedullary (IM) spinal NCC is rarer still. Furthermore, cases of IM-NCC at lumbar levels are few and far between. We present a case of a 35-year-old male patient who was diagnosed to have IM-NCC at L2-3 level and was managed surgically with no recurrence at 2 years of follow-up. A systematic literature review (1992-2020) highlights it to be only the third case reported with exclusive lumbar involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Dhar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeev Dua
- Department of Neurosurgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Hershdeep Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, India
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2
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Gliga DS, Pisanu B, Walzer C, Desvars-Larrive A. Helminths of urban rats in developed countries: a systematic review to identify research gaps. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2383-2397. [PMID: 32607706 PMCID: PMC7366588 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06776-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Although black (Rattus rattus) and brown (Rattus norvegicus) rats are among the most widespread synanthropic wild rodents, there is a surprising scarcity of knowledge about their ecology in the urban ecosystem. In particular, relatively few studies have investigated their helminth species diversity in such habitat. We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guideline to synthesize the existing published literature regarding the helminth fauna of urban rats in developed countries (North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan). We aimed at describing the species diversity and richness of urban rat helminths, the species prevalence and associations, the methods of investigation, the pathological changes observed in the hosts, the risk factors of infection and the public health significance of rat-borne helminthiases. Twenty-three scientific papers published between 1946 and 2019 were reviewed, half of them were conducted in Europe. Twenty-five helminth species and eight genera were described from the liver, digestive tract, lungs and muscles of urban rats. The most commonly reported parasite was Calodium hepaticum. Prevalence and risk factors of helminth infection in urban rats varied greatly between studies. Observed pathological findings in the rat host were generally minor, except for C. hepaticum. Several rat helminths can parasitize humans and are therefore of public health significance. The lack of references to identification keys and the rare use of molecular tools for species confirmation represent the main limitation of these studies. Knowledge gap on this topic and the needs for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana S Gliga
- Conservation Medicine, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Benoît Pisanu
- Unité Mixte de Services (UMS) 2006 Patrimoine Naturel, Office Français pour la Biodiversité (OFB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), Paris, France
| | - Chris Walzer
- Conservation Medicine, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
- Health Program, Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Amélie Desvars-Larrive
- Conservation Medicine, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.
- Unit of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Institute of Food Safety, Food Technology and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.
- Complexity Science Hub, Vienna, Austria.
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Barrie U, Badejo O, Aoun SG, Adeyemo E, Moler N, Christian ZK, Caruso JP, El Ahmadieh TY, Ban VS, MacAllister MC, Reyes VP, Hall K, Whitworth L, Bagley CA. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Management Strategies and Outcomes in Adult Spinal Neurocysticercosis. World Neurosurg 2020; 138:504-511.e8. [PMID: 32224269 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.03.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spinal involvement in neurocysticercosis is rare and can lead to debilitating injury if not diagnosed and treated early. We aim to provide the reader with a thorough analysis of the best available evidence regarding patient characteristics, optimal treatment modality, and outcomes in cases of spinal neurocysticercosis. METHODS A systematic review of the literature using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science electronic databases was made according to the PRISMA guidelines. An illustrative case of intramedullary-cervical spinal disease is also presented for illustrative purposes. RESULTS A total of 46 reports of 103 patients fitting the screening criteria were identified. Isolated spinal involvement was seen in 46.15% of patients. Most infections (76.92%) had an intradural extramedullary localization, with 43.27% of cases involving >1 spinal cord level. The most common presenting symptoms were motor deficits (77.88%), pain syndromes (64.42%), and sensory deficits (53.85%). Combined surgical resection and pharmacologic therapy was the most frequently used treatment modality (49.04%) and had the highest proportion of patients reporting symptomatic improvement at follow-up (78.43%). Combination therapy had a significantly higher rate of neurologic recovery compared with surgery alone (P = 0.004) or medical treatment (P = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS Spinal involvement in neurocysticercosis should be considered in patients from or who traveled to endemic areas presenting with ring-enhancing lesions. Combined treatment with surgery followed by cysticidal and steroid medication seems to be superior to surgery or medical treatment in isolation and seems to provide the highest chances of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umaru Barrie
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Olatunde Badejo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Salah G Aoun
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.
| | - Emmanuel Adeyemo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Nicole Moler
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Zachary K Christian
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - James P Caruso
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Tarek Y El Ahmadieh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Vin Shen Ban
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Matthew C MacAllister
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Valery Peinado Reyes
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kristen Hall
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Louis Whitworth
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Carlos A Bagley
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Neurocysticercosis Among Zambian Children and Adolescents With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Geographic Information Systems Approach. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 102:36-43. [PMID: 31492585 PMCID: PMC7864625 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2019.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurocysticercosis is the most common parasitic infection of the brain and a leading cause of epilepsy in resource-limited settings. Although neurocysticercosis and human immunodeficiency virus coinfections have commonly been reported, there are few data on how they interact. As part of an observational study of human immunodeficiency virus and cognition in Lusaka, Zambia, we identified a cluster of subjects with neurocysticercosis. We hypothesized that the neighborhood of residence may be an important factor driving clustering of neurocysticercosis and used a geographic information systems approach to investigate this association. METHODS A total of 34 subjects with human immunodeficiency virus and 13 subjects without human immunodeficiency virus (aged eight to 17 years) enrolled in the HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia study, had magnetic resonance imaging of the brain performed, and were evaluated for neurocysticercosis. Quantitative geographic information systems was utilized to investigate the relationship between neighborhood of residence, HIV, and neurocysticercosis. RESULTS Three of 34 subjects with human immunodeficiency virus (8.82%) and one of 13 controls were found to have neurocysticercosis. Geographic cluster analysis demonstrated that all subjects with neurocysticercosis were clustered in two adjacent neighborhoods (Chawama and Kanyama) with lower rates of piped water (Chawama: 22.8%, Kanyama: 26.7%) and flush toilets (Chawama: 14.0%, Kanyama: 14.0%) than the surrounding neighborhoods. CONCLUSION We describe a cluster of patients with both neurocysticercosis and human immunodeficiency virus in Lusaka. Cases of neurocysticercosis clustered in neighborhoods with low rates of piped water and limited access to flush toilets. Geographic information systems may be a useful approach for studying the relationship between human immunodeficiency virus and neurocysticercosis. Larger studies are necessary to further investigate this association.
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Clark EH, Serpa JA. Tissue Parasites in HIV Infection. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2019; 21:49. [PMID: 31734888 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-019-0703-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to discuss the current knowledge of HIV and tissue parasite co-infection in the context of transmission enhancement, clinical characteristics, treatment, relapse, and clinical outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS The pathophysiology and clinical sequelae of tissue parasites in people living with HIV (PLWH) have been well described for only a handful of organisms, primarily protozoa such as malaria and leishmaniasis. Available published data indicate that the interactions between HIV and tissue parasites are highly variable depending on the infecting organism and the degree of host immunosuppression. Some tissue parasites, such as Schistosoma species, are known to facilitate the transmission of HIV. Conversely, uncontrolled HIV infection can lead to the earlier and more severe presentation of a variety of tissue parasites and can make treatment more challenging. Although much investigation remains to be done to better understand the interactions between consequences of HIV and tissue parasite co-infection, it is important to disseminate the current knowledge on this topic to health care providers in order to prevent, treat, and control infections in PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva H Clark
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA. .,Houston HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuEST), Baylor College of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2450 Holcombe Blvd., Suite 01Y, Houston, TX, 77021, USA.
| | - Jose A Serpa
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Kuehnast M, Andronikou S, Hlabangana LT, Menezes CN. Imaging of neurocysticercosis and the influence of the human immunodeficiency virus. Clin Radiol 2019; 75:77.e1-77.e13. [PMID: 31526539 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM To review the literature on the imaging appearances of neurocysticercosis (NCC) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection and compare it with the local cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data from both published and local cases were analysed. HIV-infected cases were divided into "low" (<200 cells/mm3) and "high" (≥200 cells/mm3) CD4 groups. These groups were compared and the effect of treatment was evaluated. RESULTS Thirty-three cases were evaluated: 20 of the local cases and 13 published cases. The published cases had parenchymal brain cysts, whereas the local cases had both parenchymal and subarachnoid cysts (p=0.0050). The published cases also had intra-axial cysts, whereas the local cases had both intra- and extra-axial cysts (p=0.012). The published cases had predominantly cystic lesions, whereas the local cases had both cystic and granulomatous lesions (p=0.019). There were no differences between cases with a CD4 count of <200 cells/mm3 and cases with a CD4 count of ≥200 cells/mm3, but interestingly, 3% of the cases with a CD4 count of <500 cells/mm3, compared with 50% of the cases with a CD4 count of ≥500 cells/mm3, had racemose cysts. CONCLUSION NCC is very prevalent in South Africa and may complicate the diagnosis and treatment of patients with concomitant HIV infection. Patients with a "low" CD4 count may present with atypical lesions, delaying the diagnosis of NCC. Early initiation of highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) may result in patients presenting with more classical symptoms and imaging appearances, thus improving outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kuehnast
- Department of Radiology, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - S Andronikou
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - L T Hlabangana
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - C N Menezes
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Clark E, Serpa JA. Tropical Diseases in HIV. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-019-00194-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Herrera Vazquez O, Romo ML, Fleury A. Neurocysticercosis and HIV Infection: what can we learn from the published literature? ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2019; 77:357-365. [PMID: 31189001 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20190054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and by the larvae of Taenia solium (i.e., cysticercosis) are still widespread in many developing countries. Both pathologies modify host immune status and it is possible that HIV infection may modulate the frequency and pathogeny of cysticercosis of the central nervous system (i.e., neurocysticercosis [NCC]). To describe published cases of NCC among HIV-positive patients and to evaluate whether the characteristics of NCC, including frequency, symptoms, radiological appearance, and response to treatment differed between HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients. METHODS Forty cases of NCC/HIV co-infected patients were identified in the literature. Clinical and radiological characteristics, as well as response to treatment, were compared with non-matching historical series of NCC patients without HIV infection. RESULTS Most of these patients had seizures and multiple vesicular parasites located in parenchyma. Clinical and radiological characteristics were similar between HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients with NCC, as well as between immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised HIV-positive patients. CONCLUSION Our review did not reveal clear interactions between HIV and NCC. This may be partially due to the small number of cases and reliance on published research. A systematic, multi-institutional effort aiming to report all the cases of this dual pathology is needed to confirm this finding and to clarify the possible relationship between both pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Herrera Vazquez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Unidad de Neuroinflamación, UNAM, Ciudad de México, México.,Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Clínica de Neurocisticercosis. Ciudad de México, México
| | - Matthew L Romo
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong. Hong Kong
| | - Agnès Fleury
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Unidad de Neuroinflamación, UNAM, Ciudad de México, México.,Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Clínica de Neurocisticercosis. Ciudad de México, México
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Wiwanitkit V. Raceomose spinal cysticercosis. Hosp Pract (1995) 2017; 45:180. [PMID: 28799816 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2017.1367251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Viroj Wiwanitkit
- a Department of Community Medicine , Dr DY Patil University , Pune , India
- b Department of Tropical Medicine , Hainan Medical University , Haikou , China
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10
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Montague BT, Salas CM, Montague TL, Mileno MD. The immunosuppressed patient. Infect Dis (Lond) 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/9781119085751.ch28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Brian T. Montague
- Division of Infectious Diseases; University of Colorado; Aurora Colorado USA
| | | | | | - Maria D. Mileno
- Warren Alpert Medical School; Brown University; Providence Rhode Island USA
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Martins-Melo FR, Ramos AN, Cavalcanti MG, Alencar CH, Heukelbach J. Reprint of "Neurocysticercosis-related mortality in Brazil, 2000-2011: Epidemiology of a neglected neurologic cause of death". Acta Trop 2017; 165:170-178. [PMID: 27887696 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2016.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is an important cause of severe neurological disease mainly in low- and middle-income countries, but data on NCC mortality from endemic areas are scarce. Here we analysed the epidemiological patterns of NCC-related mortality in Brazil. We included all deaths recorded in Brazil between 2000 and 2011, in which NCC was mentioned on death certificates, either as underlying or as associated cause of death. NCC was identified in 1829/12,491,280 deaths (0.015%), 1130 (61.8%) as underlying cause, and 699 (38.2%) as associated cause. Overall age-adjusted mortality rate for the period was 0.97 deaths/1,000,000 inhabitants (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.83-1.12). The highest NCC-related mortality rates were found in males, elderly, white race/colour and residents in endemic states/regions. Age-adjusted mortality rates at national level decreased significantly over time (annual percent change [APC]: -4.7; 95% CI: -6.0 to -3.3), with a decrease in the Southeast, South and Central-West regions, and a non-significant increasing trend in the North and Northeast regions. We identified spatial and spatiotemporal high-risk mortality clusters located mainly in NCC-endemic areas. Conditions related to the nervous system were the most commonly associated causes of death when NCC was mentioned as an underlying cause, and HIV/AIDS was the main underlying cause when NCC was an associated cause. NCC is a neglected and preventable cause of severe neurologic disease and death with high public health impact in Brazil. There is a clear need to strengthen nationwide epidemiological surveillance and control for the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Rogerlândio Martins-Melo
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Professor Costa Mendes, 1608, Rodolfo Teófilo, 60430-140 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Ceará, Rua Engenheiro João Alfredo, s/n, Pabussu, 61600-000 Caucaia, CE, Brazil.
| | - Alberto Novaes Ramos
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Professor Costa Mendes, 1608, Rodolfo Teófilo, 60430-140 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Marta Guimarães Cavalcanti
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases Service, Clementino Fraga Filho University Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rua Rodolpho Paulo Rocco, 255, Cidade Universitária, 21941-913 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Alencar
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Professor Costa Mendes, 1608, Rodolfo Teófilo, 60430-140 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Professor Costa Mendes, 1608, Rodolfo Teófilo, 60430-140 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Anton Breinl Centre for Public Health and College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia.
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Association between Taenia solium infection and HIV/AIDS in northern Tanzania: a matched cross sectional-study. Infect Dis Poverty 2016; 5:111. [PMID: 27903304 PMCID: PMC5131417 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-016-0209-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The frequency of Taenia solium, a zoonotic helminth, is increasing in many countries of sub-Saharan Africa, where the prevalence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is also high. However, little is known about how these two infections interact. The aim of this study was to compare the proportion of HIV positive (+) and negative (-) individuals who are infected with Taenia solium (TSOL) and who present with clinical and neurological manifestations of cysticercosis (CC). METHODS In northern Tanzania, 170 HIV+ individuals and 170 HIV- controls matched for gender, age and village of origin were recruited. HIV staging and serological tests for TSOL antibodies (Ab) and antigen (Ag) were performed. Neurocysticercosis (NCC) was determined by computed tomography (CT) using standard diagnostic criteria. Neurological manifestations were confirmed by a standard neurological examination. In addition, demographic, clinical and neuroimaging data were collected. Further, CD4+ cell counts as well as information on highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) were noted. RESULTS No significant differences between HIV+ and HIV- individuals regarding the sero-prevalence of taeniosis-Ab (0.6% vs 1.2%), CC-Ab (2.4% vs 2.4%) and CC-Ag (0.6% vs 0.0%) were detected. A total of six NCC cases (3 HIV+ and 3 HIV-) were detected in the group of matched participants. Two individuals (1 HIV+ and 1 HIV-) presented with headaches as the main symptom for NCC, and four with asymptomatic NCC. Among the HIV+ group, TSOL was not associated with CD4+ cell counts, HAART duration or HIV stage. CONCLUSIONS This study found lower prevalence of taeniosis, CC and NCC than had been reported in the region to date. This low level of infection may have resulted in an inability to find cross-sectional associations between HIV status and TSOL infection or NCC. Larger sample sizes will be required in future studies conducted in that area to conclude if HIV influences the way NCC manifests itself.
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Martins-Melo FR, Ramos AN, Cavalcanti MG, Alencar CH, Heukelbach J. Neurocysticercosis-related mortality in Brazil, 2000-2011: Epidemiology of a neglected neurologic cause of death. Acta Trop 2016; 153:128-36. [PMID: 26505283 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is an important cause of severe neurological disease mainly in low- and middle-income countries, but data on NCC mortality from endemic areas are scarce. Here we analysed the epidemiological patterns of NCC-related mortality in Brazil. We included all deaths recorded in Brazil between 2000 and 2011, in which NCC was mentioned on death certificates, either as underlying or as associated cause of death. NCC was identified in 1829/12,491,280 deaths (0.015%), 1130 (61.8%) as underlying cause, and 699 (38.2%) as associated cause. Overall age-adjusted mortality rate for the period was 0.97 deaths/1,000,000 inhabitants (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.83-1.12). The highest NCC-related mortality rates were found in males, elderly, white race/colour and residents in endemic states/regions. Age-adjusted mortality rates at national level decreased significantly over time (annual percent change [APC]: -4.7; 95% CI: -6.0 to -3.3), with a decrease in the Southeast, South and Central-West regions, and a non-significant increasing trend in the North and Northeast regions. We identified spatial and spatiotemporal high-risk mortality clusters located mainly in NCC-endemic areas. Conditions related to the nervous system were the most commonly associated causes of death when NCC was mentioned as an underlying cause, and HIV/AIDS was the main underlying cause when NCC was an associated cause. NCC is a neglected and preventable cause of severe neurologic disease and death with high public health impact in Brazil. There is a clear need to strengthen nationwide epidemiological surveillance and control for the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex.
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Chaisiri K, Siribat P, Ribas A, Morand S. Potentially zoonotic helminthiases of murid rodents from the Indo-Chinese peninsula: impact of habitat and the risk of human infection. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2015; 15:73-85. [PMID: 25629783 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2014.1619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we report the potential rodent-borne zoonotic helminths in wild-caught murid rodents from four categorized habitats-forest, nonflooded land, irrigated land, and human settlement in seven localities of Thailand, Cambodia, and Lao PDR. Out of 2478 rodent samples, 735 (29.7%) were infected by at least one of the following zoonotic helminth species: Echinostoma malayanum, Echinostoma ilocanum, Plagiorchis muris, Raillietina spp., Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis nana, Cyclodontostomum purivisi, and Moniliformis moniliformis. Raillietina spp. showed the highest prevalence (13.8%), followed by H. diminuta (8.6%), H. nana (6.7%), and C. purvisi (1.0%). Habitat affected the intensity of helminth infection in murid rodent hosts. Specific habitats favoring each zoonotic helminth species are discussed in relation to the risk of human infection. Season and host maturity influenced intensity of total zoonotic helminths, but there was no influence of host gender. However, in terms of individual helminth species, female rodents were more infected by E. malayanum, E. ilocanum, and C. purvisi than males. Among the rodent species, Rattus tanezumi seems to play the most important role as a reservoir by hosting seven zoonotic heminth species. This rat is ubiquitously found in all types of the habitats, suggesting that it can act as an important bridge species, carrying parasites across different habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kittipong Chaisiri
- 1 Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University , Thailand
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15
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Garcia HH, Rodriguez S, Friedland JS. Immunology of Taenia solium taeniasis and human cysticercosis. Parasite Immunol 2014; 36:388-96. [PMID: 24962350 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The life cycle of Taenia solium, the pork tapeworm, is continuously closed in many rural settings in developing countries when free roaming pigs ingest human stools containing T. solium eggs and develop cysticercosis, and humans ingest pork infected with cystic larvae and develop intestinal taeniasis, or may also accidentally acquire cysticercosis by faecal-oral contamination. Cysticercosis of the human nervous system, neurocysticercosis, is a major cause of seizures and other neurological morbidity in most of the world. The dynamics of exposure, infection and disease as well as the location of parasites result in a complex interaction which involves immune evasion mechanisms and involutive or progressive disease along time. Moreover, existing data are limited by the relative lack of animal models. This manuscript revises the available information on the immunology of human taeniasis and cysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- H H Garcia
- Department of Microbiology, School of Sciences and Center for Global Health - Tumbes, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru; Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru
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Mallewa M, Wilmshurst JM. Overview of the effect and epidemiology of parasitic central nervous system infections in African children. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2014; 21:19-25. [PMID: 24655400 PMCID: PMC3989118 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2014.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Infections of the central nervous system are a significant cause of neurologic dysfunction in resource-limited countries, especially in Africa. The prevalence is not known and is most likely underestimated because of the lack of access to accurate diagnostic screens. For children, the legacy of subsequent neurodisability, which affects those who survive, is a major cause of the burden of disease in Africa. Of the parasitic infections with unique effect in Africa, cerebral malaria, neurocysticercosis, human African trypanosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, and schistosomiasis are largely preventable conditions, which are rarely seen in resource-equipped settings. This article reviews the current understandings of these parasitic and other rarer infections, highlighting the specific challenges in relation to prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and the complications of coinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macpherson Mallewa
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, School of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Fabiani S, Bruschi F. Neurocysticercosis in Europe: Still a public health concern not only for imported cases. Acta Trop 2013; 128:18-26. [PMID: 23871891 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Revised: 06/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC), a parasitic disease caused by the larvae of the cestode Taenia solium, is the most frequent parasitic disease of the central nervous system (CNS) in the world and the leading cause of secondary epilepsy in Central and South America, East and South Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. It is endemic in many low- and middle-income countries of the world. Due to increased travels and immigration, NCC may be diagnosed also in non-endemic areas. In fact, tapeworm carriers from endemic zones can transmit infection to other citizens or arrive already suffering NCC. This phenomenon, occurred first in USA during the last 30 years, has been also observed in Europe, as well as in Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan and Muslim countries of the Arab World. Actually, concerning Europe, although, in some areas only few cases have been described, nevertheless the prevalence of NCC may be considered increasing, especially in Spain and Portugal. We reviewed the literature on the burden of NCC in Europe, by a search of PubMed regarding papers from 1970 to present. We only considered on PubMed published and available papers in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, the languages understood by the authors. One hundred seventy six cases of NCC have been reported in seventeen European countries (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Netherlands, Sweden, United Kingdom, and Croatia, Norway, Switzerland). A particular epidemic situation is present in Spain and Portugal. In fact, we collected data that show, in Spain, an increasing incidence both in immigrated patients and in those which were born in certain Spanish geographical areas and, in Portugal, prevalence similar to that observed in endemic areas. Globally, it is clear that as a result of increased migrations and travels from endemic regions, NCC is becoming an emerging public health problem in high-income countries, particularly affecting communities where hygiene conditions are poor and sub-sequentially the parasite can spread from human to human through eggs even in absence of a travel to the tropics. NCC is a preventable disease, it derives that it's important to acquire a great consciousness of the epidemiology and to implement accurate surveillance systems.
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Gomes da Silva MM. Neurologic complications of HIV in the HAART era: where are we? Braz J Infect Dis 2012; 16:373-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2012.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Co-infection of HIV and tropical infectious agents that affect the nervous system. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2012; 168:270-82. [PMID: 22405463 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2012.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 02/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Tropical infections refer to a group of diseases usually located in regions with a warm climate, particularly affecting developing countries, partly because of the conditions that allow them to thrive. However, due to the increased international travel, infectious agents that were previously limited to tropical regions pose an increasing threat to populations at risk for opportunistic infection (OI), especially those infected with the HIV. Tropical infections can facilitate HIV transmission and accelerate the progression of asymptomatic HIV infection to AIDS. Some have the potential to alter the epidemiology, natural history, and/or response to treatment of the other. The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy has provided a huge benefit for the vast majority of patients infected with the HIV, by allowing the immune system to recover, improving the clinical and radiological results and reducing the number of OI. On the other hand, some patients have developed various disorders of immune reconstitution, resulting in either hyper-immune inflammatory response to an exogenous antigen or autoimmunity. A significant proportion of these cases have been reported in immigrants from tropical countries to high-income countries, therefore awareness of these phenomena is needed since clinical presentations are often atypical and pose diagnostic challenges. This article reviews some of the key diagnostic aspects of tropical infections associated with HIV infection.
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Cardoso LV, Galisteu KJ, Schiesari Júnior A, Chahla LAOA, Canille RMDS, Belloto MVT, Franco C, Maia IL, Rossit ARB, Machado RLD. Enteric parasites in HIV-1/AIDS-infected patients from a Northwestern São Paulo reference unit in the highly active antiretroviral therapy era. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2011; 44:665-9. [DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822011005000057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: We describe the epidemiology of intestinal parasites in patients from an AIDS reference service in Northeastern São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: Retrospective evaluation was done for all HIV-1/AIDS-positive patients whose Hospital de Base/São José do Rio Preto laboratorial analysis was positive for enteroparasites after diagnosis of HIV-1 infection, from January 1998 to December 2008. Statistical analysis was performed using the R statistical software version 2.4.1. The level of significance adopted was 5%. RESULTS: The most frequent protozoan was Isospora belli (4.2%), followed by Giardia lamblia (3.5%), Entamoeba coli (2.8%), and Cryptosporidium parvum (0.3%). Ancylostoma duodenale (1.4%) was the most frequently detected helminth, while Taenia saginata and Strongiloides stercoralis were found in 0.7% of the samples. The results showed that diarrhea was significantly associated with giardiasis and isosporiasis. However, no association was observed between CD4+ cell counts, viral load, and the characteristics of any particular parasite. CONCLUSIONS: Our data may be useful for further comparisons with other Brazilian regions and other developing countries. The data may also provide important clues toward improving the understanding, prevention, and control of enteric parasites around the world.
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Karp CL, Mahanty S. Approach to the Patient with HIV and Coinfecting Tropical Infectious Diseases. TROPICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES: PRINCIPLES, PATHOGENS AND PRACTICE 2011. [PMCID: PMC7150329 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-7020-3935-5.00139-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Parija SC, Gireesh AR. A serological study of cysticercosis in patients with HIV. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2009; 51:185-9. [PMID: 19738997 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652009000400002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2008] [Accepted: 06/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) has attained the importance of one of the most common cause of focal brain lesions in patients infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Adequate data regarding the rate of this co-infection is lacking. Therefore, the present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of cysticercosis among HIV patients residing in Puducherry or its neighboring districts of Tamil Nadu State, India. A total of one hundred blood samples were collected from HIV seropositive cases visiting JIPMER hospital, Puducherry, between June 2007 and May 2008. Enzyme immunotransfer blot (EITB) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to demonstrate anti- T. solium larval stage antibodies and Co-agglutination (Co-A) test was used to detect T. solium larval stage antigens in sera. Two HIV seropositive cases were found positive for anti-T. solium larval stage antibody by EITB and four were positive by ELISA. Only one sample was positive by both EITB and ELISA. No serum sample was found positive for T. solium larval stage antigen by Co-A test. The overall seropositivity detected by all the methods was 5% in this study group. The accurate clinical diagnosis of NCC in HIV is difficult due to deranged immunological parameters in the HIV infected patients. The results of this study provides important data on the prevalence of cysticercosis in HIV positive patients in Puducherry and neighboring areas which was previously unknown. This study will also increase awareness among physicians and public health agencies about T. solium cysticercosis in the selected group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhash Chandra Parija
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India.
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Abstract
Cysticercosis, caused by Taenia solium larva is a major public health problem,especially in the developing world and neurocysticercosis (NCC) is considered to be the most common parasitic infestation of the central nervous system. NCC is identified as the single most common cause of community acquired active epilepsy; 26.3% to 53.8% active epilepsy cases in the developing world including India and Latin America are due to NCC.It is also becoming more common in the developed world because of increased migration of people with the disease or Taenia solium carriers and frequent travel to the endemic countries. It is estimated that three quarters of the estimated 50 million people with active epilepsy live in the poor countries of the world. Recent Indian studies using neuroimaging techniques suggest that the disease burden in India surpasses many other developing countries. Hence it is important to know the epidemiology,pathogenesis and diagnostic criteria so as to assess the disease burden and adopt interventional strategies for its control.Literature search was done for this review with special emphasis on Indian studies to create awareness about the disease in India,since cysticercosis is preventable and potentially eradicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kashi Nath Prasad
- Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226 014, India.
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Santo AH. Cysticercosis-related mortality in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, 1985-2004: a study using multiple causes of death. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2008; 23:2917-27. [PMID: 18157334 DOI: 10.1590/s0102-311x2007001200013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2006] [Accepted: 03/30/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cysticercosis-related mortality has not been studied in Brazil. Deaths recorded in the State of São Paulo from 1985 to 2004 in which cysticercosis was mentioned on any line or in any part of the death certificate were studied. Causes of death were processed using the Multiple Cause Tabulator. Over this 20-year period, cysticercosis was identified in 1,570 deaths: as the underlying cause in 1,131 and as an associated cause of death in 439. Standardized mortality rates with cysticercosis as the underlying cause showed a downward trend and were higher among men and older individuals. Intracranial hypertension, cerebral edema, hydrocephalus, inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, and cerebrovascular diseases were the main associated causes in deaths due to cysticercosis. AIDS was the principal underlying cause of death in which cysticercosis was an associated cause. The counties (municipalities) with the most cysticercosis-related deaths were São Paulo, Campinas, Ribeirão Preto, and Santo André. Wide variation was observed between counties regarding the value ascribed to cysticercosis as the underlying cause of death. This leads to underestimation of the disease's importance in planning health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Hasiak Santo
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua Pará 21, São Paulo, SP 01243, Brazil.
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Mayer KH, Karp CL, Auwaerter PG, Mayer KH. Coinfection with HIV and Tropical Infectious Diseases. II. Helminthic, Fungal, Bacterial, and Viral Pathogens. Clin Infect Dis 2007; 45:1214-20. [DOI: 10.1086/522180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2007] [Accepted: 07/07/2007] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
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Ramos JM, Masia M, Padilla S, Bernal E, Martin-Hidalgo A, Gutiérrez F. Fatal infection due to larval cysts of cestodes (neurocysticercosis and hydatid disease) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients in Spain: report of two cases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 39:719-23. [PMID: 17654350 DOI: 10.1080/00365540701242392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
There is little information on infections caused by larval cestodes in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in developed countries. Two infections by larval cestodes were found in 714 HIV-infected patients studied from 1998 to 2004 at the Hospital General Universitario de Elche in Spain (Mediterranean Coast). The first patient was a Colombian immigrant diagnosed as having neurocysticercosis, and subsequently found to have HIV infection. The second case was an HIV-infected Spanish patient who developed hydatid disease of the liver, lung and peritoneum. Both patients died. Although infrequent, infections by larval cestodes constitute a cause of disease in HIV-infected patients in developed countries, and might be linked with a more severe presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Ramos
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Alicante, Spain.
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Yamasaki H, Nakaya K, Nakao M, Sako Y, Ito A. Significance of Molecular Diagnosis using Histopathological Specimens in Cestode Zoonoses. Trop Med Health 2007. [DOI: 10.2149/tmh.35.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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28
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Chianura L, Sberna M, Moioli C, Villa MR, Orcese C, Causarano R. Neurocysticercosis and human immunodeficiency virus infection: a case report. J Travel Med 2006; 13:376-80. [PMID: 17107432 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2006.00074.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ecuador is considered a holoendemic high-risk area for the transmission of cysticercosis. Moreover, the progression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) occurs worldwide. We present a case of simultaneous diagnosis of cysticercosis and HIV infection in a 22-year-old Ecuadorian immigrant. We would postulate that with the increasing HIV incidence in endemic areas of cysticercosis, the simultaneous diagnosis of both diseases is an event to be expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Chianura
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Niguarda Cà Granda Hospital, Milano, Italy.
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Han MH, Walker M, Zunt JR. NEUROLOGICAL INFECTIONS IN THE RETURNING INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2006; 12:133-158. [PMID: 25147444 DOI: 10.1212/01.con.0000290453.95850.ff] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Clinicians may encounter international travelers returning with exotic infections, emerging infectious diseases, or resurgent old-world infections. Many of these infectious diseases can affect the nervous system directly or indirectly. The contemporary neurologist should therefore be cognizant of the clinical manifestations, potential complications, and appropriate management of common travel-related infections. This chapter focuses on five important infections that affect the central nervous system and that may be encountered in returning travelers: Japanese encephalitis, malaria, rabies, dengue, and neurocysticercosis. The clinical manifestations, suggested evaluation, and treatment are discussed for each infection.
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Walker M, Zunt JR. Parasitic central nervous system infections in immunocompromised hosts. Clin Infect Dis 2005; 40:1005-15. [PMID: 15824993 PMCID: PMC2692946 DOI: 10.1086/428621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2004] [Accepted: 11/28/2004] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunosuppression due to therapy after transplantation or associated with HIV infection increases susceptibility to various central nervous system (CNS) infections. This article discusses how immunosuppression modifies the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of selected parasitic CNS infections, with a focus on toxoplasmosis, Chagas disease, neurocysticercosis, schistosomiasis, and strongyloidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Walker
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, USA
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Yancey LS, Diaz-Marchan PJ, White AC. Cysticercosis: Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Management of Neurocysticercosis. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2005; 7:39-47. [PMID: 15610670 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-005-0022-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis, caused by infection with the pork tapeworm Taenia solium, is increasingly recognized as a cause of neurologic disease worldwide. Because the clinical presentation is nonspecific, diagnosis has been difficult. Advances in imaging studies and serodiagnostic techniques are facilitating the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis and tapeworm carriers. Neurocysticercosis represents a spectrum of disease. Seizures are the main clinical manifestation in parenchymal neurocysticercosis. Recent studies emphasize that such seizures are the result of the host inflammatory response, even in patients who only have calcifications with no viable cysticerci. Controlled clinical trials have demonstrated that antiparasitic drugs can decrease the number of generalized seizures, although the benefit is small and confined to a subgroup of patients. Corticosteroids can also decrease seizure frequency. Case studies have demonstrated that endoscopic surgery appears to be the optimal approach to ventricular cysts. Recombinant vaccines are being developed and may prove important in disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Yancey
- Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza 535E, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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