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In vitro evaluation of MR hypointensity in Aspergillus colonies
D W Fellows1, V D King, T Conturo
1Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21205.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Paramagnetic elements in Aspergillus fumigatus cause dark spots (hypointensities) on MRI scans. This study demonstrates how fungal metal accumulation affects magnetic susceptibility and MR imaging results.
Area of Science:
- Medical imaging
- Mycology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Fungal infections can cause imaging abnormalities.
- The magnetic properties of fungi are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if paramagnetic elements in fungal colonies cause hypointensity in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Main Methods:
- Aspergillus fumigatus was cultured in vitro and imaged using CT and MRI.
- T2 values, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive analysis, and furnace atomic absorption spectrometry were employed.
Main Results:
- Fungal growth exhibited hypointensities on T2-weighted and gradient-echo MRI.
- Analysis confirmed the presence of paramagnetic elements, correlating with magnetic susceptibility effects and T2 value changes.
Conclusions:
- In vitro Aspergillus fumigatus concentrates metal elements from its environment.
- These metal collections contribute to magnetic susceptibility effects, causing focal T2 value alterations and MRI hypointensities.