Two Case Reports of Isolated Intramuscular Cysticercosis: An Uncommon Pediatric Pseudotumor.

Taenia solium, the pig tapeworm, produces larvae that cause cysticercosis, a common parasitic disease of the human nervous system including the brain. The disease is native to countries like Central and South America, Eastern Europe, Africa, India, and Indonesia. Cysticercosis is endemic in North India, particularly in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. Asymptomatic cysts may have a history of trauma, while lower extremity involvement is less common. Isolated muscle involvement typically has no lethal consequences. Two cases, both pediatric, were diagnosed with intramuscular cysticercosis without involvement of the brain parenchyma. The patients received oral prednisolone therapy for seven days, followed by albendazole for 28 days. The swellings decreased in size and no new swellings or symptoms appeared during the two- and four-week follow-ups. At a three-month follow-up, the swellings completely resolved. Neurocysticercosis is a commonly encountered infection of the human central nervous system and one of the major causes of acquired epilepsy globally. Most cases are asymptomatic and go undiagnosed, with the first case likely due to trauma. Diagnosis is often delayed or overlooked due to vague clinical symptoms. Clinical differential diagnoses for intramuscular cysticercosis include lipomas, epidermoid cysts, neuromas, neurofibromas, pseudoganglia, sarcomas, myxomas, pyomyositis, cold abscess, and tuberculous lymphadenitis. High-resolution ultrasound is the most accurate method for diagnosing intramuscular cysticercosis, as it is quick, simple, and less expensive. Muscular cysticercosis sonographic patterns can be categorized into four types: first degree, uneven, irregular, and calcified. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most accurate way to diagnose intramuscular cysticercosis, as it can show live scolex, cysts, and degenerating cysts. In every case, there is edema to varied degrees, with fluid-filled lesions without peripheral enhancement visible in early stages and peripheral rim augmentation and perilesional edema observed in later stages.

Unveiling the Intricacies: A Comprehensive Review of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Assessment of T2-Weighted Hyperintensities in the Neuroimaging Landscape.

T2-weighted hyperintensities in neuroimaging represent areas of heightened signal intensity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, holding crucial importance in neuroimaging. This comprehensive review explores the T2-weighted hyperintensities, providing insights into their definition, characteristics, clinical relevance, and underlying causes. It highlights the significance of these hyperintensities as sensitive markers for neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, vascular dementia, and brain tumors. The review also delves into advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as susceptibility-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging, and the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in hyperintensities analysis. Furthermore, it outlines the challenges and pitfalls associated with their assessment and emphasizes the importance of standardized protocols and a multidisciplinary approach. The review discusses future directions for research and clinical practice, including the development of biomarkers, personalized medicine, and enhanced imaging techniques. Ultimately, the review underscores the profound impact of T2-weighted hyperintensities in shaping the landscape of neurological diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, contributing to a deeper understanding of complex neurological conditions and guiding more informed and effective patient care.

Radiological Evaluation of a Rare Case of Rib Caries and Cold Abscess in a Young Male Patient With Miliary Tuberculosis: A Case Report With Review of Literature.

Rib caries with a cold abscess is a rare presentation of tuberculosis (TB) and is tricky to diagnose. It is rarer in young patients, especially in conjunction with active miliary TB. We present one such case of a 23-year-old male patient who presented with swelling over the left lower chest. Rib caries and cold abscess were initially detected by ultrasonography and elastography. The rib involvement and the extent of the cold abscess were further evaluated on a computed tomography scan, which also showed active pulmonary miliary TB. The patient was treated by aspiration of the cold abscess and anti-tuberculosis therapy. The fact that the patient had no history of diabetes, alcoholism, human immunodeficiency virus infection, or immunodeficiency disorder increases the rarity of this case. This case highlights the role of imaging in diagnosing rib caries, cold abscess, and miliary TB.