Cerebral cystic echinococcosis: A retrospective series of 7 cases

Abstract

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), caused by Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato and other Echinococcus species, is a neglected tropical disease that predominantly affects the liver and lungs, with central nervous system involvement being rare but potentially severe. Data on cerebral CE in Afghanistan remain limited, resulting in insufficient characterization of its clinical and management patterns. This study describes seven patients (aged 7–45 years) with isolated cerebral CE and a history of livestock exposure or CE in family members. Lesions were located in the frontal, parietal, or temporal lobes. Headache was present in all patients (100%), followed by seizures (85.7%) and focal neurological deficits (28.6%). All patients underwent complete surgical cystectomy, followed by a three-month course of albendazole. Short-term outcomes were favorable, with resolution of headache in all cases and seizure control achieved in the majority (83.3%). These findings highlight the occurrence of cerebral CE in different regions of Afghanistan, and demonstrate a favorable early clinical response to the combined surgical and medical treatment approach.