Compressive myelopathy secondary to spinal neurocysticercosis stablished by polymerase chain reaction

Abstract

Neurocysticercosis is an endemic parasitic disease in several regions of the world. The spinal form is rare and its diagnosis is complex due to the clinical variability and the poor performance of the available additional tests. In this paper, we describe the case of a 34-year-old male patient who presented compressive myelopathy secondary to spinal neurocysticercosis confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and histopathology report. The patient was successfully treated with decompressive surgery. We discuss the clinical aspects, the usefulness of diagnostic tools —including polymerase chain reaction—, and the therapeutic options available for the treatment of spinal neurocysticercosis. © 2018 Sociedad Neurológica Argentina