Tapeworm Mimics Brain Cancer in Spain Case Highlights Neurocysticercosis
A 60-year-old Spanish man with headaches was initially diagnosed with metastatic brain cancer after imaging, but comprehensive testing found no primary tumor. MRI revealed cysts in the brain containing tapeworm tissue, diagnosing neurocysticercosis caused by Taenia solium. He recovered after treatment with antiparasitics (albendazole and praziquantel) and steroids. The case suggests possible local transmission in non-endemic settings and underscores that NCC can mimic cancer, so differential diagnosis should include parasitic infections even if travel history is absent to prevent unnecessary invasive cancer procedures.