Characterization of neurocysticercosis pediatric patient population of Cartagena

Abstract

Introduction: neurocysticercosis is an infection of the central nervous system caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, which is endemic in low-income countries, with deficiencies in specific health determinants. It can present nonspecific neurological symptoms including seizures. In this study, clinical and sociodemographic characterization of patients with neurocysticercosis in a highly complex pediatric institution was carried out. Methods: descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study. We analyzed 244 medical records of patients under 18 years diagnosed and treated for neurocysticercosis at the Napoleón Franco Pareja Children's Hospital (HINFP) in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. Results: the year with the highest prevalence of neurocysticercosis was 2015, with 29 % of reported cases. Between 2016 and 2018, the prevalence was 20%. The main reason for consultation was seizures (90 % of cases), followed by headache as the second cause (10 %). Simple and contrasted Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) was performed in 95.7 % of the patients. Regarding management with antiparasitic, 92 % were treated with albendazole, complying with treatment for up to 14 days (82.6 %). Conclusions: in the region, few studies indicate the factors associated with infection by this parasite without an established description of the incidence of the disease. For disease diagnosis, it is highly recommended to carry out a detailed clinical history, considering hygienic habits, feeding, history of contact with carriers of Taenia. solium and pig-raising areas where they generally have contact with contaminated human feces, complete physical examination, neuroimaging, and enzymatic techniques.