Treatment:

Treatment may involve:

• Medications to kill the parasites (antiparasitic treatments)
• Powerful anti-inflammatories (steroids) to reduce swelling

If the cyst is in the eye or the brain, steroids may be started a few days before other medicines to avoid problems caused by swelling during antiparasitic treatment.

Sometimes surgery may be needed to remove the infected area.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outlook is generally good, unless the lesion has caused blindness, heart failure, or brain damage. These are rare complications.

Complications:

• Blindness, decreased vision
• Heart failure or abnormal rhythm
• Seizures, increased pressure in the brain

Calling your health care provider:

If you have any symptoms of cysticercosis, contact your health care provider.