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Neuropsychiatric disorders, ranging from mild cognitive impairment to frank psychosis, have been associated with certain parasitic infections. The parasite may cause damage to the central nervous system in several ways: as a space‑occupying lesion (neuro‑cysticercosis), alteration of neurotransmitters (toxoplasmosis), generation of the inflammatory response (trypanosomiasis, schistosomiasis), hypovolemic neuronal injury (cerebral malaria), or a combination of these. Certain drugs like quinacrine (mepacrine), mefloquine, quinolone, and interferon alpha which are used to treat these parasitic infections can further cause neuropsychiatric adverse effects. This review summarizes the major parasitic infections that are associated with neuropsychiatric disorders and the pathogenesis involved in their processes. A high index of suspicion for parasitic diseases, especially in endemic areas, should be kept in patients presenting with neuropsychiatric symptoms. A multidimensional approach to identification of the offending parasite using serological, radiological, and molecular tests is required not only to ensure proper and prompt treatment of the primary parasitic infection but also to improve the prognosis of patients by complete resolution of neuropsychiatric symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neurocysticercosis is a common cerebral parasitic infestation, caused due to pork tapeworm infection the infestations risks parallels the socio-economic status, personal hygiene and education. The effect of NCC was assessed in neurocognition. Objective: To study demographic characteristics and neurocognitive domains of patients with Neurocysticercosis Methods: Neurocysticercosis diagnosed patients by CT, MRI and LAMP tests. MMSE score was measured for assessment. Results: MMSE score were reduced in majority of the patients. In attention was the most common deficit found. Repeat MMSE assessment done in 6 patients showed an improvement of scores post therapy Conclusion: Cognitive involvement is common in NCC and is a major cause of morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]