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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Analysis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Published on: July 28, 2013
Transient diffusion-weighted imaging changes in a patient with reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome
K E Wartenberg1, A D Patsalides, M Yepes
1Department of Neurology, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
Acta Radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)
|December 14, 2004
Summary
Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) cannot reliably distinguish reversible from irreversible brain lesions in patients treated with FK 506 after liver transplantation. Hyperintense DWI lesions do not predict poor prognosis in reversible leukoencephalopathy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Transplantation Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Orthotopic liver transplantation is a complex procedure.
- FK 506 (tacrolimus) is a common immunosuppressant used post-transplantation.
- Leukoencephalopathy is a potential complication following transplantation and immunosuppression.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old male liver transplant recipient developed focal status epilepticus and left hemiparesis.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) hyperintensities in all vascular territories.
- These DWI lesions resolved within two weeks after discontinuing FK 506.
Findings:
- Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) findings in this case suggested reversible leukoencephalopathy.
- The observed hyperintensities on DWI were not indicative of irreversible brain damage.
- Lesion resolution occurred after cessation of FK 506 therapy.
Implications:
- Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) may not be a definitive tool for predicting outcomes in FK 506-induced reversible leukoencephalopathy.
- Clinical correlation and monitoring of treatment response are crucial in interpreting DWI findings in this context.
- Further research is needed to establish reliable imaging biomarkers for reversible leukoencephalopathy in transplant patients.
