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Isolated pontine infarction due to rhinocerebral mucormycosis
1Ege University Medical Faculty, Department of Radiology, Izmir, Turkey.
Abstract:
We report a patient with rhinocerebral mucormycosis whose initial central nervous system involvement was isolated pontine infarction due to basilar arteritis caused by the fungus. The patient was diagnosed and followed by MRI and CT and basilar arteritis was demonstrated well on MRI studies. Involvement of the skull base was shown on CT in the later stage of the disease. The unusual initial presentation of the infection is discussed.
Insights
Rhinocerebral mucormycosis can initially present as pontine infarction due to fungal-induced basilar arteritis. This case highlights an unusual initial manifestation of this serious fungal infection, emphasizing the need for broad diagnostic considerations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a rare but aggressive fungal infection.
- Central nervous system (CNS) involvement can occur but often presents with direct invasion or venous sinus thrombosis.
Observation:
- This case details a patient whose initial CNS manifestation was an isolated pontine infarction.
- The infarction was attributed to basilar arteritis caused by the fungus.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) effectively demonstrated the basilar arteritis.
Findings:
- Computed Tomography (CT) scans revealed skull base involvement in later stages.
- The primary finding was an unusual initial presentation of CNS mucormycosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the diverse and sometimes atypical neurological presentations of rhinocerebral mucormycosis.
- Early recognition of such unusual patterns is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Highlights the utility of advanced imaging like MRI in diagnosing fungal arteritis.