Geographic Distribution of the Prevalence of Neurocysticercosis in the Municipality of Piedade, São Paulo

Abstract

Background: Neurocysticercosis is a globally occurring parasitosis that affects the central nervous system. The main clinical manifestation is seizures.The aim of this study was to analyze the geographic distribution of patients with seizures attending the Emergency Unit of the Piedade municipality, SP, with a diagnosis of neurocysticercosis, and to compare the association of its prevalence with age, basic sanitation and food hygiene habits between rural and urban areas. Methods: One hundred thirty-six patients with seizures were evaluated. The Epidemiological data of all subjects will be described. Results: The diagnosis of neurocysticercosis was confirmed in 24 patients, corresponding to a prevalence of 17.65%. The presence of an open sewer predominated in the rural area, while the consumption of unwashed fruits, presence of elderly people and geographic distribution were similar in the two areas. Conclusions: Urgent measures to raise awareness about the disease and preventive actions should be taken by world authorities.