Spinal Cord Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain Caused by Spinal Cysticercosis: Case Report

Background: Spinal cord cysticercosis, a rare subtype of neurocysticercosis (NCC), primarily affects the subarachnoid space. The optimal treatment approach remains uncertain, with both pharmacological and surgical strategies being employed. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been established as a safe and effective therapy for chronic pain,we present a case of neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord cysticercosis, successfully managed with SCS. Case presentation: A 69-year-old female presented with an 8-year history of trunk and limb pain. Eight years ago, she was diagnosed with spinal cord cysticercosis at a hospital in South Korea and underwent laminectomy. The surgery was uneventful, and her postoperative recovery was satisfactory. However, the pain persisted and progressively worsened over time, eventually involving the entire trunk and limbs, accompanied by sensory abnormalities and progressive lower limb weakness. After a thorough evaluation based on her symptoms, an electrode was placed at the L2 segment for spinal cord stimulation. During hospitalization, stimulation parameters were adjusted multiple times based on patient feedback. At a one-week postoperative follow-up, the patient reported significant relief from trunk and limb pain, along with marked improvement in lower limb strength, sensory perception, numbness, and cold sensations. Conclusions: This case demonstrates the efficacy of SCS in treating neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord cysticercosis. The benefits extend beyond pain relief to include recovery of impaired motor function, providing a valuable reference for managing refractory pain in similar patients.