A 9-year-old child with new-onset focal seizures undergoes MRI brain showing multiple small cystic lesions with eccentric scolex and surrounding edema, one lesion in the right frontoparietal region. Serological testing for Taenia solium antibodies is positive. Alongside albendazole therapy, what adjunctive treatment is routinely recommended?

• A Praziquantel given simultaneously at higher dose
• B Corticosteroids to reduce inflammatory edema ✓
• C Intravenous mannitol infusion for 7 days
• D Niclosamide to eradicate intestinal tapeworm first

Explanation

Viable neurocysticerci treated with albendazole die and provoke intense host inflammation that can worsen seizures and edema, so corticosteroid cover is routinely given with anthelmintic therapy. Praziquantel is an alternative anthelmintic, not an adjunct, and combined therapy is reserved for multiple viable lesions in specialist settings. Mannitol is used only for raised intracranial pressure. Niclosamide treats the adult intestinal worm but does not address the parenchymal cysts driving symptoms.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.