MRI in Chemotherapy induced Leukoencephalopathy: Report of Two Cases and Radiologist's Perspective
Geetika Sindhwani1, Manali Arora2, Vishal Dhirenbhai Thakker2
1Assistant Professor, Department of Radiodiagnosis, Pramukhswami Medical College and Shree Krishna Hospital, Anand, Gujarat, India.
Abstract:
Leukoencephalopathy is a progressive white matter disease primarily caused due to myelin damage by a variety of factors. Chemotherapy for oncological treatment is an uncommon but important cause of potentially reversible leukoencephalopathy. In current radiological setting, conventional and diffusion weighted MRI play a significant role in early and accurate detection of this entity. We are hereby presenting MRI evaluation of two cases of methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil induced toxic leukoencephalopathy.
Insights
Toxic leukoencephalopathy can be a reversible side effect of chemotherapy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for detecting this white matter disease, as shown in two cases of methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Leukoencephalopathy is a progressive white matter disorder resulting from myelin damage.
- Chemotherapy is an uncommon but significant cause of reversible leukoencephalopathy.
- Early detection of leukoencephalopathy is vital for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- This study presents two cases of toxic leukoencephalopathy.
- The patients received chemotherapy involving methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was utilized for evaluation.
Findings:
- Conventional and diffusion-weighted MRI are effective for diagnosing leukoencephalopathy.
- MRI revealed characteristic white matter changes consistent with toxic insult.
- The findings highlight the role of neuroimaging in identifying chemotherapy-induced leukoencephalopathy.
Implications:
- Neuroimaging, particularly MRI, is essential for the early diagnosis of chemotherapy-induced leukoencephalopathy.
- Recognizing this condition allows for timely intervention and potentially reversible outcomes.
- Understanding the radiological features aids clinicians in managing patients undergoing specific oncological treatments.
