Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026
09:31
Visualization of Amyloid β Deposits in the Human Brain with Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Imaging Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 7, 2019
Amyloid-β-related angiitis presenting as leptomeningitis
Pablo Gómez-Porro1, Beatriz De La Puente1, Lorena Fernández1
1Neurology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital of Majadahonda, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
BMJ Neurology Open
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Inflammatory cerebral amyloid angiopathy (ICAA) can be challenging to diagnose. This case highlights subtle radiological findings in amyloid beta-related angiitis (ABRA) and the utility of the kappa index.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Inflammatory cerebral amyloid angiopathy (ICAA) is an autoimmune condition targeting cerebral beta-amyloid.
- ICAA encompasses cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related inflammation (CAA-RI) and amyloid beta-related angiitis (ABRA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of ABRA with subtle initial radiological findings.
- To emphasize the diagnostic challenges and potential utility of biomarkers in ABRA.
Main Methods:
- Histological confirmation of ABRA.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis, including kappa free light chain index.
- Brain biopsy for definitive diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Initial radiological findings were subtle, posing a diagnostic challenge.
- Elevated kappa free light chain index supported an inflammatory etiology with leptomeningitis.
- Brain biopsy confirmed ABRA.
Conclusions:
- ABRA can present with subtle radiological signs, necessitating its inclusion in the differential diagnosis of leptomeningitis.
- The kappa index may serve as a valuable biomarker in diagnosing ICAA spectrum disorders.
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