J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2010 Jul;48(1):91-93. 10.3340/jkns.2010.48.1.91.

Neurocysticercosis Involving the Pituitary Stalk : Case Report and Literature Review

• Cheong JH
• Kim JM
• Kim CH

• KMID: 2190334
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3340/jkns.2010.48.1.91

Abstract

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common parasitic infestation of the central nervous system. Most cases of NCC are to related and/or associated with inflammation within the cerebral parenchyma. A 71-year-old woman presented with a 4-year history of visual disturbance. This symptom had become aggravated 4 weeks earlier. Her visual acuity gradually decreased and superior hemianopsia was noted. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an enhanced and thickened pituitary stalk accompanying a suspicious mass. The provisional diagnoses were lymphoma, glioma, or other inflammatory conditions. Laboratory studies, including blood and hormonal studies, showed normal findings. Surgical resection was performed. In the pathological examination, degenerated parasitic wall structure was seen and its contents were composed of completely degenerated focal globular structures suggesting the scolex of cysticercus. We report an unusual case of NCC involving the pituitary stalk which was presented with a juxtasellar tumor. The possible underlying mechanisms are discussed with a review of pertinent literature.

Keyword

Neurocysticercosis; Pituitary stalk; Visual disturbance

MeSH Terms

Aged
Central Nervous System
Cysticercus
Female
Glioma
Hemianopsia
Humans
Inflammation
Lymphoma
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Neurocysticercosis
Pituitary Gland
Visual Acuity