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Epstein-Barr virus encephalitis and encephalomyelitis: MR findings
1Department of Pediatrics, Tao-Yuan Veterans Hospital, No. 100, Sec 3, Cheng-Kung Rd, City of Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.
Pediatric Radiology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) encephalitis and encephalomyelitis present with diverse clinical and brain MR findings. Lesions may resolve quickly, making timely MRI scans crucial for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can cause serious neurological complications.
- Encephalitis and encephalomyelitis are inflammatory conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical and brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging characteristics of EBV-associated encephalitis and encephalomyelitis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of clinical and MR findings in 29 patients diagnosed with EBV encephalitis or encephalomyelitis.
- Categorization of patients into encephalitis, encephalomyelitis, and brain-stem encephalitis groups.
Main Results:
- Common clinical presentations included altered consciousness, seizures, visual hallucinations, and acute psychotic reactions.
- Eight patients (27.6%) showed positive MR findings, such as T2 prolongation in gray and white matter, periventricular leukomalacia, and brain atrophy.
- One patient exhibited transient T2 prolongation, highlighting the dynamic nature of MR lesions.
Conclusions:
- EBV encephalitis and encephalomyelitis exhibit a broad spectrum of clinical and MR imaging manifestations.
- The transient nature of MR lesions underscores the critical importance of scan timing for accurate diagnosis.