Paucisymptomatic brainstem lesions revealing CNS schistosomiasis
Rommel, D.; Ragé, M.; Duprez, T.; Parent, M.; Sindic, C.J.M.
Acta Neurologica Belgica 105(2): 89-93
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-9009 PMID: 16076063 Document Number: 584968
We describe clinical and magnetic resonance (MR) features in a 69-year-old, Caucasian woman presenting with an unusual meningeal onset of cerebral schistosomiasis. Magnetic resonance work-up demonstrated supra- and infratentorial lesions with prominent brainstem involvement contrasting with the paucisymptomatic clinical presentation. Because of a recent stay in Uganda, including swimming in Lake Victoria, a diagnosis of neuroschistosomiasis was suggested. Serological tests and rectal biopsy confirmed the putative diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with praziquantel at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 15 days. Brain MRI abnormalities improved dramatically within two months.