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CNS cryptococcosis in AIDS: spectrum of MR findings

C F Andreula1, N Burdi, A Carella

  • 1Department of Neuroradiology, Università degli studi di Bari, Italy.

Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|May 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Central nervous system (CNS) cryptococcosis is a significant opportunistic infection in AIDS patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed specific findings like gelatinous pseudocysts and choroidal granulomas in these patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neuroimaging

Background:

  • Cryptococcus is a common fungus that can cause serious infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
  • Central nervous system (CNS) cryptococcosis affects 5% of AIDS patients with opportunistic infections.
  • Understanding the neuroimaging characteristics is crucial for diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the Magnetic Resonance (MR) findings in nine acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients with CNS cryptococcosis.
  • To identify imaging features that are relatively specific for this fungal infection.

Main Methods:

  • MR imaging was performed on nine AIDS patients with suspected CNS cryptococcosis.
  • Contrast enhancement using gadopentetate dimeglumine was utilized.
  • Autopsy confirmation was available in one case.

Main Results:

  • MR imaging demonstrated meningitis/meningoencephalitis and dilated Virchow-Robin spaces.
  • Specific findings included cyst-like structures (gelatinous pseudocysts) and granulomas (cryptococcomas) of the choroid plexuses.
  • Pseudocysts and choroidal ependymal granulomas were identified as relatively specific indicators.

Conclusions:

  • CNS cryptococcosis in AIDS patients presents with characteristic MR imaging findings.
  • Gelatinous pseudocysts and choroidal ependymal granulomas are key imaging signatures.
  • These findings aid in the diagnosis of cryptococcosis in immunocompromised individuals.

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