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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Analysis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Published on: July 28, 2013
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Dengue fever with bilateral thalamic diffusion restriction lesions: a case report
Husna Yoosuf1, Josef A Alawneh2, Zafar Hashim3
1College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE.
BMC Neurology
|April 26, 2025
Summary
Dengue encephalitis can mimic ischemic stroke, posing diagnostic challenges. Recognizing unusual dengue presentations and utilizing brain MRI are crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Dengue encephalitis is a rare but serious complication of dengue infection.
- It can present atypically, mimicking conditions like ischemic stroke, complicating diagnosis.
- Neuroradiology plays a vital role in identifying these unusual presentations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight a case of dengue encephalitis presenting as ischemic stroke.
- To emphasize the importance of considering dengue in the differential diagnosis of stroke.
- To showcase the diagnostic utility of neuroimaging in atypical dengue cases.
Main Methods:
- A case report of a 38-year-old male with sudden onset neurological deficits.
- Diagnostic workup included Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain and Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).
- Clinical presentation, imaging findings, and laboratory results were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Brain MRI revealed hyperintensities in bilateral thalamic and parafalcine regions, suggestive of ischemic stroke.
- Despite initial stroke treatment, the patient's condition worsened.
- RT-PCR confirmed dengue hemorrhagic fever, indicating encephalitis as the cause of neurological symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Dengue fever complications, including encephalitis presenting as stroke, should be considered in endemic areas.
- Bilateral thalamic lesions on MRI can be a key diagnostic clue for atypical dengue.
- Prompt diagnosis of dengue encephalitis is essential for appropriate management and improved outcomes.
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