Diffusion-weighted imaging characteristics of methotrexate-induced acute encephalopathy
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Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Co-analysis of Brain Structure and Function using fMRI and Diffusion-weighted Imaging
Published on: November 8, 2012
1Department of Hematology & Blood Transfusion Mitsui Memorial Hospital Chiyoda-ku Japan.
Abstract:
Methotrexate (MTX)-induced encephalopathy is a grave complication in patients with malignancies. The early diagnosis of acute encephalopathy was difficult by conventional computed tomography (CT), and T1- or T2-weighted magnet resonance (MR) imaging. We report that the diffusion-weighted (DW) imaging is useful for early detection of acute leukoencephalopathy.
Insights
Early diagnosis of methotrexate (MTX)-induced encephalopathy is challenging. Diffusion-weighted (DW) imaging shows promise for the early detection of acute leukoencephalopathy, a severe complication in cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapy agent used in treating various malignancies.
- MTX-induced encephalopathy is a serious adverse effect, often difficult to diagnose early.
- Conventional imaging techniques like CT and standard MRI sequences have limitations in early detection.
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