[Abnormal scintigrams in demyelinating diseases of the brain (author's transl)]

In 6 patients with acute or exacerbating demyelinating disease and in 2 cases suffering from adrenoleucodystrophy (Schilder's disease) brain scintigraphy revealed areas with increased isotope uptake. The pathological foci were verified by autopsy in 4 cases and by inspection in 1. These foci are difficult to distinguish from other localized brain diseases causing increased isotope uptake; in addition to the clinical course and to spinal fluid abnormalities reversibility of the scintigraphic lesions indicate demyelinating diseases. The typical pattern of symmetrical lesions within the white matter and the progression of abnormalities from the occipital to the frontal lobe speak in favor of Schilder's disease.