Neurocysticercosis is the commonest chronic parasitic infestation of the central nervous system. Although malaria is perhaps the commonest acute parasitic illness, as far as chronic infestation is concerned neurocysticercosis affects many people worldwide. Interest in neurocysticercosis and its clinical manifestation has been intense in the past 15 years, since the advent of CT in many countries where it is endemic. Epilepsy is the commonest clinical presentation and reports from all over the world show that in many countries it is the prime cause for epilepsy at various ages, especially in adults. Neurocysticercosis is now seen worldwide in people who emigrate, travel, or visit countries where it is endemic. Because of the ease of travel neurologists are perhaps more aware of the existence of the condition but in those who live in countries where it is not endemic, the experience is limited. Having a book on the subject is of immense interest to many doctors, not only in the neurological world but also in the disciplines of infectious diseases and tropical medicine.

The condition is endemic in Central and South America, India, and many parts of Africa. The scientific literature on the topic is divided between the Spanish and English languages. This book is divided into 14 chapters, only three of which are written in English. For a non-Spanish speaker the book offers little value but on the other hand, it is most valuable to people in the Spanish speaking world. The information is up to date with modern imaging, up to date immunology, and extensive photographs of pathological specimens.

This may sound a bit “politically incorrect” but homogeneity is important in any book and the fact that this book is written in two languages does not really serve this purpose. It is much easier for this book to be appreciated by a Spanish rather than an English reader, who will have difficulty in comprehending most of the chapters.

I do not think that in these very financially restrained times I can recommend a book which is mainly written in Spanish, to university departments or neurological units in the English speaking world.