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Cerebral aspergillosis: MR imaging and histopathologic correlation
J Cox1, F R Murtagh, A Wilfong
1Department of Radiology, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa 33612.
Abstract:
The authors report a case of intracranial aspergillosis secondary to immunosuppression. Signal intensity changes in the lesion on brain MR are compared with gross and histopathologic findings at autopsy. A peripheral ring of low signal intensity relates to a dense population of Aspergillus hyphal elements and small areas of hemorrhage. CT findings are included for comparison.
Insights
This case study details intracranial aspergillosis in an immunosuppressed patient. Brain MRI findings correlated with autopsy, revealing Aspergillus hyphae and hemorrhage in a low-signal intensity ring.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Intracranial aspergillosis is a rare but severe fungal infection.
- Immunosuppression is a primary risk factor, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections like aspergillosis.
Observation:
- A case of intracranial aspergillosis is presented in a patient with a history of immunosuppression.
- Brain Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging was utilized to visualize the lesion.
Findings:
- Signal intensity changes on brain MR were analyzed and compared with autopsy findings.
- A peripheral low signal intensity ring in the lesion was identified.
- This ring corresponded to a dense concentration of Aspergillus hyphal elements and microhemorrhages.
- Computed Tomography (CT) findings were also included for comparative analysis.
Implications:
- This study highlights the importance of recognizing characteristic imaging findings of intracranial aspergillosis.
- Correlation of imaging with histopathology aids in understanding the pathophysiology of the disease.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in immunosuppressed patients with suspected fungal brain infections.