Isolated primary intradural extramedullary spinal neurocysticercosis: a case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND

In spite of being the most common parasitic infestation of central nervous system (CNS), spinal cysticercosis remains a rare entity.

METHODS

We report an unusual case of a 45-year-old-male with primary isolated localization of spinal intradural extramedullary cysticercosis at thoracic 3/4 level. The lesion was surgically addressed to decompress the cord in combination with administration of oral albendazole. The weakness improved after treatment but the pain and numbness persisted. The available treatment options, diagnostic strategies and the pathophysiology of this rare condition are discussed here with a brief review of literature.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should be aware of the diagnostic possibility of such a rare pathology. Neurosurgeons may face surgical challenges due to dense arachnoiditis associated with the degenerating lesion which may also account for the incomplete resolution of the symptoms even after treatment.