Understanding the long-term effects of treated neurocysticercosis

Natural History of Treated Neurocysticercosis and Long-Term Outcomes

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) · NCT00001205

This study is looking at how people with neurocysticercosis do over time after treatment to see what affects their long-term health and to find better ways to diagnose and understand the disease.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages3 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) (nih)
Locations1 site (Bethesda, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT00001205 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study follows patients diagnosed with neurocysticercosis, a brain disease caused by the pork tapeworm, to assess the clinical and biological factors influencing their long-term outcomes after treatment. Participants will receive standard anthelmintic therapy and anti-inflammatories, and their progress will be monitored over time. The study aims to develop novel biomarkers, improve diagnostic methods, and explore the interactions between the host and the parasite. By collecting clinical data and biological samples, researchers hope to better understand the disease's course and its various manifestations.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 3 years and older with proven or likely neurocysticercosis.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of neurocysticercosis or those under 3 years of age may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies and better long-term outcomes for patients with neurocysticercosis.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on neurocysticercosis, this approach focusing on long-term outcomes and biomarker development is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* INCLUSION CRITERIA:

Arms 1-5 (NCC):

1. Aged 3 years and older.
2. Ability of participant (or legally authorized representative, LAR) to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
3. Patients with proven or likely NCC

Arm 6 (Endemic Exposures):

1. Patient with epidemiologic history compatible with possible exposure to NCC
2. Aged 18 years and older.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

Not applicable

Where this trial is running

Bethesda, Maryland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cysticercosis, Neurocysticercosis, Tapeworm, Taenia Solium, Natural History, Seizures, Aseptic Meningitis, Hydrocephalus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.