The returned traveler with neurologic manifestations: could my patient have a parasite?

Abstract

Purpose of review The present review focuses on parasitic infections of the central nervous system (CNS) that can affect the international traveler. Recent findings The epidemiology of imported parasitic infections is changing and clinicians are treating increasing numbers of returned travelers with parasitic infections in the CNS with which they are not familiar. Summary The epidemiology, life cycle, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of parasites that affect the CNS will be discussed.

Pathogens infecting the central nervous system

“…The clinical presentation depends on the localization and size of the lesions, but distinct parasites may lead to the same symptomatology, making diagnosis challenging. Although a number of CNS parasitic infections are endemic in tropical countries, they are now spreading globally due to international migration and travel [ 17 ].…”