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Subdural and epidural empyemas: MR imaging.
K Weingarten1, R D Zimmerman, R D Becker
1Department of Radiology, New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, NY 10021.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is superior to CT scans for diagnosing extraaxial empyemas. MRI effectively visualizes these infections and associated brain abnormalities, improving patient prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroradiology
- Medical Imaging
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Extraaxial empyemas are serious intracranial infections requiring prompt diagnosis.
- Computed tomography (CT) has limitations in fully characterizing these lesions.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers advanced visualization capabilities.
Observation:
- Six patients with extraaxial empyemas underwent both MRI and CT imaging.
- MRI sequences revealed characteristic signal intensities for empyemas.
- A hypointense rim was noted in epidural empyemas, differentiating them from subdural types.
Findings:
- MRI demonstrated superior visualization of empyema collections compared to CT.
- Characteristic MRI signal changes helped distinguish empyemas from sterile effusions and hematomas.
- MRI effectively depicted inflammation-induced parenchymal changes like edema and mass effect.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of intracranial infections is crucial for improved patient outcomes.
- MRI is the preferred imaging modality for suspected acute intracranial infections.
- Advanced MRI visualization aids in precise diagnosis and management of extraaxial empyemas.