The possibilities of tomographic methods in the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis: a review

Introduction : Neurocysticercosis is one of the most common helminthiases of the central nervous system, the frequency of which is increasing from year to year. Neuroimaging methods currently occupy a key place in the diagnosis of this pathology. Objective: To demonstrate the importance of neuroimaging methods in radiation diagnostics in patients with neurocysticercosis, to highlight typical patterns of changes detected by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Materials and methods: Our review presents data obtained from available PubMed and Scopus sources published up to and including December 2022. The search was performed using the keywords: neurocysticercosis, cysticercosis, diagnosis, CT, MRI in Russian and English. Results: The literature review describes the diagnostic capabilities of neuroimaging methods in detecting neurocysticercosis of the central nervous system. Based on the results of the published scientific papers, the authors conclude that the use of diagnostic methods of computer and magnetic resonance imaging plays a key role in establishing the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis in the early stages and also allows for differential diagnosis. Discussion : Neurocysticercosis is one of the most common helminthiases affecting the central nervous system. The prevalence of this disease is increasing from year to year, which, among other things, is due to the wider use and accessibility of neuroimaging methods. Neurocysticercosis affects mainly the young and able-bodied population, in some cases occurring without obvious clinical symptoms. Conclusion : Neuroimaging techniques such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are an integral part of a comprehensive examination of patients with suspected neurocysticercosis, which undoubtedly affects the future management of such patients.