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Neurocysticercosis: Advanced Imaging Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, and Evidence-Based Management

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  Introduction Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common parasitic infection of the central nervous system worldwide , representing a leading cause of adult-onset seizures, particularly in endemic regions of Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. With increasing globalization, immigration, and international travel, NCC has become a significant diagnostic consideration even in non-endemic developed countries. Despite being preventable, NCC continues to pose major diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its protean clinical manifestations, variable radiologic appearances, and complex host–parasite interactions. Advances in neuroimaging—especially MRI—have dramatically improved diagnostic accuracy, allowing earlier detection and targeted treatment strategies. This column provides an in-depth, expert-level review of neurocysticercosis, integrating pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, advanced imaging features, differential diagnosis, manag...

Testicular Epidermoid Cyst: Imaging Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Evidence-Based Management

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  Introduction Testicular epidermoid cyst is a rare, benign intratesticular lesion that accounts for approximately 1–2% of all testicular tumors . Despite its benign nature, it represents a critical diagnostic challenge because its imaging appearance may overlap with malignant germ cell tumors. An accurate diagnosis is essential to avoid unnecessary radical orchiectomy , particularly in young men of reproductive age. With the evolution of high-resolution scrotal ultrasound and multiparametric MRI , testicular epidermoid cyst has become one of the few testicular lesions that can be confidently diagnosed preoperatively . This column provides a comprehensive, evidence-based review of testicular epidermoid cyst, focusing on pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging features, differential diagnosis, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis , based on the most authoritative and recent global literature . Pathophysiology A testicular epidermoid cyst is a ...

Understanding Limbic Encephalitis: Clinical Insights, Radiologic Findings, and Management Strategies

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  Limbic Encephalitis (LE) is a complex and often underdiagnosed neurological condition characterized by inflammation of the limbic system—the brain's hub for memory, emotion, and behavior. As a critical topic in modern neurology and oncology, understanding its presentation is vital for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. 1. Pathophysiology Limbic encephalitis occurs when the immune system targets the limbic structures, specifically the hippocampus and amygdala. The pathophysiology is broadly categorized into: Paraneoplastic LE: Triggered by an underlying malignancy (e.g., small cell lung cancer, thymoma), where the immune system produces antibodies against intracellular neuronal antigens. Autoimmune (Non-paraneoplastic) LE: Involves antibodies directed against cell-surface or synaptic proteins (e.g., NMDA receptor, LGI1), often occurring without an associated tumor. Infectious LE: Predominantly caused by viral pathogens, mos...