Diagnostic Criteria for Human Cysticercosisa
- Absolute criteria
- Demonstration of cysticerci by histologic or microscopic examination of biopsy material
- Visualization of the parasite in the eye by funduscopy
- Neuroradiologic demonstration of cystic lesions containing a characteristic scolex
- Major criteria
- Neuroradiologic lesions suggestive of neurocysticercosis
- Demonstration of antibodies to cysticerci in serum by enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot
- Resolution of intracranial cystic lesions spontaneously or after therapy with albendazole or praziquantel alone
- Minor criteria
- Lesions compatible with neurocysticercosis detected by neuroimaging studies
- Clinical manifestations suggestive of neurocysticercosis
- Demonstration of antibodies to cysticerci or cysticercal antigen in cerebrospinal fluid by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
- Evidence of cysticercosis outside the central nervous system (e.g., cigar-shaped soft-tissue calcifications)
- Epidemiologic criteria
- Residence in a cysticercosis-endemic area
- Frequent travel to a cysticercosis-endemic area
- Household contact with an individual infected with Taenia solium
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aDiagnosis is confirmed by either one absolute criterion or a combination of two major criteria, one minor criterion, and one epidemiologic criterion. A probable diagnosis is supported by the fulfillment of (1) one major criterion plus two minor criteria; (2) one major criterion plus one minor criterion and one epidemiologic criterion; or (3) three minor criteria plus one epidemiologic criterion.
Source: Modified from OH Del Brutto et al: Neurology 57:177, 2001.