11/10/2025
Neurocysticercosis is a parasitic infection of the central nervous system caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium (pork tapeworm). It occurs when humans ingest eggs that develop into larvae within the brain. MRI is the best tool for diagnosis, showing different appearances depending on the stage. In the vesicular stage, a cyst with a visible scolex (“dot sign”) is seen. The colloidal stage shows ring enhancement and surrounding edema. The granular-nodular stage displays smaller enhancing lesions with less edema. The calcified stage appears as hypointense foci on T2 and susceptibility sequences. MRI helps assess number, location, and activity of lesions, guiding treatment.