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Arterial Spin-labeling in Central Nervous System Infection
Tomoyuki Noguchi1, Yusuke Yakushiji, Masashi Nishihara
1Department of Radiology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine.
Summary
Arterial spin-labeling magnetic resonance imaging (ASL-MRI) shows distinct perfusion patterns in central nervous system (CNS) infections. This noninvasive technique aids in monitoring brain function during CNS infections.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) infections present diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate assessment of brain function is crucial for managing CNS infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize arterial spin-labeling magnetic resonance imaging (ASL-MRI) findings in various types of CNS infections.
- To evaluate the utility of ASL-MRI in differentiating pathological patterns within CNS infections.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of pulsed ASL-MRI was performed on 32 patients with CNS infections.
- ASL-MRI findings were correlated with pathogens and four distinct pathological classifications: non-purulent parenchymal, meningeal, abscess, and ventricular involvement.
Main Results:
- High perfusion was observed in 47% of non-purulent parenchymal involvement cases, notably in herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections (80%).
- Meningeal involvement showed high perfusion along cerebral sulci in 77% of cases.
- Low perfusion was noted in 25% of abscess formations, and high perfusion in 17% of ventricular involvements.
Conclusions:
- ASL-MRI demonstrates characteristic perfusion patterns in CNS infections.
- ASL-MRI offers a noninvasive method for monitoring brain function in patients with CNS infections.
