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Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of pyogenic ventriculitis

John A Pezzullo1, Glenn A Tung, Sanjay Mudigonda

  • 1Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Brown University School of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St., Providence, RI 02903, USA.

AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|December 20, 2002
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Diffusion-weighted MRI can identify pyogenic ventriculitis (ventricular empyema). Restricted water diffusion in purulent fluid, seen as increased signal intensity, aids in diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroradiology
  • Neuroimaging

Background:

  • Pyogenic ventriculitis, also known as ventricular empyema or pyocephalus, is a serious intracranial infection.
  • Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the specific features of pyogenic ventriculitis on diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
  • To establish diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) as a valuable tool for diagnosing this condition.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of MR imaging studies in patients with suspected pyogenic ventriculitis.
  • Focus on diffusion-weighted sequences to evaluate signal intensity and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of intraventricular fluid.

Main Results:

  • Pyogenic ventriculitis demonstrates markedly increased signal intensity of dependent intraventricular fluid on DWI.
  • The ADC values of this purulent fluid are significantly lower compared to normal cerebral white matter, indicating restricted water diffusion.

Conclusions:

  • Diffusion-weighted MR imaging is highly effective in detecting restricted water diffusion characteristic of purulent material within the ventricles.
  • These findings strongly suggest the diagnosis of pyogenic ventriculitis, aiding clinicians in prompt management.

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