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Aerts R, Mehra V, Groll AH, Martino R, Lagrou K, Robin C, Perruccio K, Blijlevens N, Nucci M, Slavin M, Bretagne S, Cordonnier C. Guidelines for the management of Toxoplasma gondii infection and disease in patients with haematological malignancies and after haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation: guidelines from the 9th European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia, 2022. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 24:e291-e306. [PMID: 38134949 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00495-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Patients with haematological malignancies might develop life-threatening toxoplasmosis, especially after allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). Reactivation of latent cysts is the primary mechanism of toxoplasmosis following HSCT; hence, patients at high risk are those who were seropositive before transplantation. The lack of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis and various immune status parameters of the patient are other associated risk factors. The mortality of toxoplasma disease-eg, with organ involvement-can be particularly high in this setting. We have developed guidelines for managing toxoplasmosis in haematology patients, through a literature review and consultation with experts. In allogeneic HSCT recipients seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii before transplant, because T gondii infection mostly precedes toxoplasma disease, we propose weekly blood screening by use of quantitative PCR (qPCR) to identify infection early as a pre-emptive strategy. As trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis might fail, prophylaxis and qPCR screening should be combined. However, PCR in blood can be negative even in toxoplasma disease. The duration of prophylaxis should be a least 6 months and extended during treatment-induced immunosuppression or severe CD4 lymphopenia. If a positive qPCR test occurs, treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, pyrimethamine-sulfadiazine, or pyrimethamine-clindamycin should be started, and a new sample taken. If the second qPCR test is negative, clinical judgement is recommended to either continue or stop therapy and restart prophylaxis. Therapy must be continued until a minimum of two negative PCRs for infection, or for at least 6 weeks for disease. The pre-emptive approach is not indicated in seronegative HSCT recipients, after autologous transplantation, or in non-transplant haematology patients, but PCR should be performed with a high level of clinical suspicion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robina Aerts
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Varun Mehra
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andreas H Groll
- Infectious Disease Research Program, Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation and Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Rodrigo Martino
- Servei d'Hematologia, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christine Robin
- Department of Haematology, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Henri Mondor Hospital, Créteil, France
| | - Katia Perruccio
- Pediatric Oncology Hematology, Mother and Child Health Department, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy
| | - Nicole Blijlevens
- Department of Haematology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Marcio Nucci
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Monica Slavin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stéphane Bretagne
- Université Paris Cité, and Parasitology and Mycology laboratory, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Saint Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Cordonnier
- Department of Haematology, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Henri Mondor Hospital, Créteil, France; University Paris-Est-Créteil, Créteil, France.
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Parillo M, Vaccarino F, Di Gennaro G, Kumar S, Van Goethem J, Beomonte Zobel B, Quattrocchi CC, Parizel PM, Mallio CA. Overview of the Current Knowledge and Conventional MRI Characteristics of Peri- and Para-Vascular Spaces. Brain Sci 2024; 14:138. [PMID: 38391713 PMCID: PMC10886993 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14020138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain spaces around (perivascular spaces) and alongside (paravascular or Virchow-Robin spaces) vessels have gained significant attention in recent years due to the advancements of in vivo imaging tools and to their crucial role in maintaining brain health, contributing to the anatomic foundation of the glymphatic system. In fact, it is widely accepted that peri- and para-vascular spaces function as waste clearance pathways for the brain for materials such as ß-amyloid by allowing exchange between cerebrospinal fluid and interstitial fluid. Visible brain spaces on magnetic resonance imaging are often a normal finding, but they have also been associated with a wide range of neurological and systemic conditions, suggesting their potential as early indicators of intracranial pressure and neurofluid imbalance. Nonetheless, several aspects of these spaces are still controversial. This article offers an overview of the current knowledge and magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of peri- and para-vascular spaces, which can help in daily clinical practice image description and interpretation. This paper is organized into different sections, including the microscopic anatomy of peri- and para-vascular spaces, their associations with pathological and physiological events, and their differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Parillo
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Research Unit of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Federica Vaccarino
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Research Unit of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Di Gennaro
- Department of Health Sciences, Chair of Medical Statistics, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Sumeet Kumar
- Department of Neuroradiology, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore 308433, Singapore
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Johan Van Goethem
- Department of Radiology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Bruno Beomonte Zobel
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Research Unit of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Carlo Cosimo Quattrocchi
- Centre for Medical Sciences-CISMed, University of Trento, Via S. Maria Maddalena 1, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Paul M Parizel
- Royal Perth Hospital & University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Carlo Augusto Mallio
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Research Unit of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
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Jakabek D, Chaganti J, Brew BJ. Infectious leukoencephalopathies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 204:431-453. [PMID: 39322393 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-99209-1.00016-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Leukoencephalopathy from infectious agents may have a rapid course, such as human simplex virus encephalitis; however, in many diseases, it may take months or years before diagnosis, such as in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis or Whipple disease. There are wide geographic distributions and susceptible populations, including both immunocompetent and immunodeficient patients. Many infections have high mortality rates, such as John Cunningham virus and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, although others have effective treatments if suspected and treated early, such as herpes simplex encephalitis. This chapter will describe viral, bacterial, and protozoal infections, which predominantly cause leukoencephalopathy. We focus on the clinical presentation of these infectious agents briefly covering epidemiology and subtypes of infections. Next, we detail current pathophysiologic mechanisms causing white matter injury. Diagnostic and confirmatory tests are discussed. We cover predominantly MRI imaging features of leukoencephalopathies, and in addition, summarize the common imaging features. Additionally, we detail how imaging features may be used to narrow the differential of a leukoencephalopathy clinical presentation. Lastly, we present an outline of common treatment approaches where available.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Jakabek
- Department of Neurology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joga Chaganti
- Department of Radiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce James Brew
- Department of Neurology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; University of Notre Dame, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of HIV Medicine and Peter Duncan Neurosciences Unit St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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4
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Bhattaru A, Blanchard I, Kunamneni S, Rojulpote C, Iskander P, Nasr S, Klamp D. Acrophialophora: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Guidelines and Diagnosis. Cureus 2023; 15:e37614. [PMID: 37197132 PMCID: PMC10184873 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Acrophialophora is a saprotrophic genus of fungi found in both temperate and tropical regions. The genus is comprised of 16 species, with the subspecies A. fusispora and A. levis necessitating the most clinical concern. Acrophialophora is an opportunistic pathogen with a broad range of clinical manifestations; the fungus has been implicated in cases of fungal keratitis, lung infection, and brain abscess. Acrophialophora infection is particularly of concern for immunocompromised patients, who often present with a more severe disease course involving disseminated infection and may not exhibit typical symptoms. Early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are critical to the successful clinical management of Acrophialophora infection. Guidelines for antifungal treatment have yet to be established, partially due to the lack of documented cases. Aggressive use of antifungal agents and long-term treatment is required, especially in immunocompromised patients and patients with systemic involvement, due to the potential for morbidity and mortality. In addition to outlining the rarity and epidemiology of the disease, this review provides an overview of the diagnosis and clinical management of Acrophialophora infection to facilitate an early diagnosis and appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Bhattaru
- Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Medicine, Rutgers University New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
| | | | | | - Chaitanya Rojulpote
- Internal Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, USA
- Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiovascular Molecular Imaging, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Peter Iskander
- Internal Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, USA
| | - Simin Nasr
- Family Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, USA
| | - Douglas Klamp
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, USA
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Ng CF, Chong CY. Cerebral Toxoplasmosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Neurohospitalist 2021; 11:377-378. [PMID: 34567404 DOI: 10.1177/19418744211005324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A 37-year-old man with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis presented with an episode of generalized tonic seizure. He complained of poor concentration and forgetfulness for 1 week. He suffered a relapse of lupus nephritis 4 months ago and received a course of intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral prednisolone and mycophenolate mofetil. Clinically, there was no focal neurological deficit. Retroviral screening was negative. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed eccentric and concentric signs which confirmed the diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Fei Ng
- Department of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chia Yin Chong
- Department of Radiology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Sakai M, Higashi M, Fujiwara T, Uehira T, Shirasaka T, Nakanishi K, Kashiwagi N, Tanaka H, Terada H, Tomiyama N. MRI imaging features of HIV-related central nervous system diseases: diagnosis by pattern recognition in daily practice. Jpn J Radiol 2021; 39:1023-1038. [PMID: 34125369 PMCID: PMC8202053 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-021-01150-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART), the prognosis of people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has improved, and the frequency of HIV-related central nervous system (CNS) diseases has decreased. Nevertheless, mortality from HIV-related CNS diseases, including those associated with ART (e.g., immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome) remains significant. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can improve the outlook for people with HIV through early diagnosis and prompt treatment. For example, HIV encephalopathy shows a diffuse bilateral pattern, whereas progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, HIV-related primary CNS lymphoma, and CNS toxoplasmosis show focal patterns on MRI. Among the other diseases caused by opportunistic infections, CNS cryptococcosis and CNS tuberculosis have extremely poor prognoses unless diagnosed early. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome shows distinct MRI findings from the offending opportunistic infections. Although distinguishing between HIV-related CNS diseases based on imaging alone is difficult, in this review, we discuss how pattern recognition approaches can contribute to their early differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mio Sakai
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69, Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan.
| | - Masahiro Higashi
- Department of Radiology, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14, Hoenzaka, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan
| | - Takuya Fujiwara
- Department of Radiology, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14, Hoenzaka, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan
| | - Tomoko Uehira
- AIDS Medical Center, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14, Hoenzaka, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan
| | - Takuma Shirasaka
- AIDS Medical Center, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14, Hoenzaka, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Nakanishi
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69, Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Nobuo Kashiwagi
- Department of Future Diagnostic Radiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hisashi Tanaka
- Department of Radiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2‑2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565‑0871, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Terada
- Department of Radiology, Toho University Sakura Medical Center, 564-1, Shimoshizu, Sakura, Chiba, 285-8741, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Tomiyama
- Department of Radiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2‑2, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565‑0871, Japan
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Neurotoxoplasmosis in a Patient with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. J Belg Soc Radiol 2021; 105:30. [PMID: 34046550 PMCID: PMC8139301 DOI: 10.5334/jbsr.2475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Teaching Point: Neurotoxoplasmosis should be part of the differential diagnosis for single or multiple cerebral lesions in hematologic patients.
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8
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Graham AK, Fong C, Naqvi A, Lu JQ. Toxoplasmosis of the central nervous system: Manifestations vary with immune responses. J Neurol Sci 2020; 420:117223. [PMID: 33213861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.117223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii (TG), which affects one third of the global human population and commonly involves the central nervous system (CNS)/brain despite the so-called CNS immune privilege. Symptomatic clinical disease of TG infection is much more commonly associated with immunodeficiency; clinicopathological manifestations of CNS toxoplasmosis are linked to individual immune responses including the CNS infiltration of T-cells that are thought to prevent the disease. In patients with autoimmune diseases, immune status is complicated mainly byimmunosuppressant and/or immunomodulatory treatment but typically accompanied by infiltration of T-cells that supposedly fight against toxoplasmosis. In this article, we review characteristics of CNS toxoplasmosis comparatively in immunocompromised patients, immunocompetent patients, and patients with coexisting autoimmune diseases, as well as CNS immune responses to toxoplasmosis with a representative case to demonstrate brain lesions at different stages. In addition to general understanding of CNS toxoplasmosis, our review reveals that clinical manifestations of CNS toxoplasmosis are commonly nonspecific, and incidental pathological findings of TG infection are relatively common in immunocompetent patients and patients with autoimmune diseases (compared to immunocompromised patients); CNS immune responses such as T-cell infiltrates vary in acute and chronic lesions of brain toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice K Graham
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Hamilton General Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
| | - Crystal Fong
- Neuroradiology Division, Department of Radiology, Hamilton General Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Asghar Naqvi
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Hamilton General Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jian-Qiang Lu
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Hamilton General Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Neuropathology Section, Hamilton General Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
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Imaging in Differentiating Cerebral Toxoplasmosis and Primary CNS Lymphoma With Special Focus on FDG PET/CT. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2020; 216:157-164. [PMID: 33112669 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.19.22629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to present a brief review of literature evaluating different imaging modalities with special focus on 18F-FDG PET/CT in differentiating cerebral toxoplasmosis and primary CNS lymphoma. CONCLUSION. Differentiating cerebral toxoplasmosis and primary CNS lymphoma is crucial in the care of patients with HIV infection. Delayed diagnosis can lead to considerable morbidity and mortality. The reference standard for diagnosis is biopsy and histopathologic examination. Biopsy has disadvantages due to its invasive nature and associated complications. Noninvasive imaging can be an alternative to biopsy for differentiation of toxoplasmosis and primary CNS lymphoma. Despite advances in MRI techniques, prophylaxis of opportunistic infection, and treatment of HIV infection, clinical situations continue to arise in which the diagnosis is not clear. In these instances, molecular imaging can be helpful.
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Abbasi Fard S, Khajeh A, Khosravi A, Mirshekar A, Masoumi S, Tabasi F, Hassanzadeh T, Mortazavi MM. Fulminant and Diffuse Cerebral Toxoplasmosis as the First Manifestation of HIV Infection: A Case Presentation and Review of the Literature. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2020; 21:e919624. [PMID: 31982888 PMCID: PMC6998800 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.919624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Male, 9-year-old Final Diagnosis: Fulminant and diffuse cerebral toxoplasmosis Symptoms: Decreased level of consciousness • fever • generalized tonic-clonic seizures • hemiplegia Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Decompressive hemicraniectomy Specialty: Neurosurgery
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Affiliation(s)
- Salman Abbasi Fard
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Skull Base Foundation, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Ali Khajeh
- Pediatric Department, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Alireza Khosravi
- Department of Neurology, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Mirshekar
- Pediatric Department, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Safoora Masoumi
- Pediatric Department, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Farhad Tabasi
- Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Tania Hassanzadeh
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Skull Base Foundation, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Martin M Mortazavi
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Skull Base Foundation, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
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Ueno H, Norose K, Kamimura T, Mihara K, Yamasaki F, Hikosaka K, J Amatya V, Takeshima Y, Kurisu K, Maruyama H. Metastatic Malignant Lymphoma Mimicking Cerebral Toxoplasmosis with the "Target Sign". Intern Med 2019; 58:1157-1162. [PMID: 30568116 PMCID: PMC6522404 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1156-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We herein report the case of a 60-year-old man with a "target sign" in the left frontal lobe on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which is thought to be a specific sign of cerebral toxoplasmosis. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography showed no increased uptake, and 201Tl-single photon emission computed tomography showed the focal uptake in the left frontal lesion. On a brain biopsy, the patient was given a definitive diagnosis of brain metastasis from diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and cerebral toxoplasmosis was excluded. In the present case, multilayer intensities on MRI may reflect the fast-growing nature of this tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Ueno
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Kazumi Norose
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
| | - Teppei Kamimura
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Keichiro Mihara
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Fumiyuki Yamasaki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Kenji Hikosaka
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
| | - Vishwa J Amatya
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Yukio Takeshima
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Kaoru Kurisu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Maruyama
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan
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12
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Concentric and Eccentric Target MRI Signs in a Case of HIV-Associated Cerebral Toxoplasmosis. Case Rep Neurol Med 2018; 2018:9876514. [PMID: 29682373 PMCID: PMC5841062 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9876514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral toxoplasmosis is one of the most common causes of focal brain lesions in immunocompromised patients, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Differentiating toxoplasmosis from other central nervous system (CNS) lesions provides a significant clinical challenge. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the brain is key to prompt diagnosis and treatment of cerebral toxoplasmosis. Several specific signs on MRI of brain have been described in recent literature including the “concentric target sign” and “eccentric target sign.” We report a case of successfully treated HIV-associated cerebral toxoplasmosis in which both MRI signs were present simultaneously.
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13
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Rostami A, Karanis P, Fallahi S. Advances in serological, imaging techniques and molecular diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection. Infection 2018; 46:303-315. [PMID: 29330674 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-017-1111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is worldwide distributed zoonotic infection disease with medical importance in immunocompromised patients, pregnant women and congenitally infected newborns. Having basic information on the traditional and new developed methods is essential for general physicians and infectious disease specialists for choosing a suitable diagnostic approach for rapid and accurate diagnosis of the disease and, consequently, timely and effective treatment. METHODS We conducted English literature searches in PubMed from 1989 to 2016 using relevant keywords and summarized the recent advances in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. RESULTS Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was most used method in past century. Recently advanced ELISA-based methods including chemiluminescence assays (CLIA), enzyme-linked fluorescence assay (ELFA), immunochromatographic test (ICT), serum IgG avidity test and immunosorbent agglutination assays (ISAGA) have shown high sensitivity and specificity. Recent studies using recombinant or chimeric antigens and multiepitope peptides method demonstrated very promising results to development of new strategies capable of discriminating recently acquired infections from chronic infection. Real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) are two recently developed PCR-based methods with high sensitivity and specificity and could be useful to early diagnosis of infection. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear imaging and ultrasonography could be useful, although their results might be not specific alone. CONCLUSION This review provides a summary of recent developed methods and also attempts to improve their sensitivity for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. Serology, molecular and imaging technologies each has their own advantages and limitations which can certainly achieve definitive diagnosis of toxoplasmosis by combining these diagnostic techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Shirzad Fallahi
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran. .,Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.
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Abstract
Primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL) has been designated an acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-defining disease since 1983 and accounts for up to 15% of non-Hodgkin lymphomas in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients. The majority of HIV patients are Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-related. The most likely etiology is ineffective immunoregulation of EBV, inducing oncogenic protein expression, and subsequent loss of apoptosis and increased proliferation of lymphocytes. PCNSL generally presents with supratentorial, single or multiple, contrast-enhancing lesions. Neurologic symptoms can be headache, cognitive function disorders, focal neurologic, deficit and epilepsy. Differential diagnosis includes other oncologic or infectious causes, with cerebral toxoplasmosis being the most important. Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics, activity on 201thallium single-photon emission computed tomography, presence of EBV DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid, and toxoplasmosis serology can make either PCNSL or cerebral toxoplasmosis more or less likely. However, definitive diagnosis of PCNSL relies on histopathologic confirmation. First-choice treatment is combination antiretroviral therapy in combination with high-dose methotrexate(-based) chemotherapy in patients in whom this is feasible. Combination antiretroviral therapy combined with whole-brain radiotherapy may be an alternative. Treatment of EBV with antiviral agents such as ganciclovir or zidovudine may be beneficial, but this needs further study. Prognosis of HIV-related PCNSL is poor, with median survival varying from 2 to 4 months, but patients treated with chemotherapy do better (median survival 1.5 years).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieta Brandsma
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacoline E C Bromberg
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Cancer Center Daniel den Hoed, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Rudie JD, Rauschecker AM, Nabavizadeh SA, Mohan S. Neuroimaging of Dilated Perivascular Spaces: From Benign and Pathologic Causes to Mimics. J Neuroimaging 2017; 28:139-149. [PMID: 29280227 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Perivascular spaces (PVSs), also known as Virchow-Robin spaces, are pial-lined, fluid-filled structures found in characteristic locations throughout the brain. They can become abnormally enlarged or dilated and in rare cases can cause hydrocephalus. Dilated PVSs can pose a diagnostic dilemma for radiologists because of their varied appearance, sometimes mimicking more serious entities such as cystic neoplasms, including dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor and multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor, or cystic infections including toxoplasmosis and neurocysticercosis. In addition, various pathologic processes, including cryptococcosis and chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids, can spread into the brain via PVSs, resulting in characteristic magnetic resonance imaging appearances. This review aims to describe the key imaging characteristics of normal and dilated PVSs, as well as cystic mimics and pathologic processes that directly involve PVSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Rudie
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Andreas M Rauschecker
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Seyed A Nabavizadeh
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Suyash Mohan
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Harrison WT, Hulette C. Cerebral Toxoplasmosis: A Case Report with Correlation of Radiographic Imaging, Surgical Pathology, and Autopsy Findings. Acad Forensic Pathol 2017; 7:494-501. [PMID: 31239998 DOI: 10.23907/2017.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection of the central nervous system. Certain radiographic findings can be highly suggestive of the disease, but there is considerable overlap with both lymphoma and brain metastases, making the diagnosis difficult or delayed. Herein we present the case of a 77-year-old woman with a history of treated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma who presented with neurological symptoms four months after she was declared to be in remission. Her initial head computed tomography scan showed multiple low-attenuated lesions in her brain and a contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scan showed multiple T1- and T2- enhancing lesions in the basal ganglia and at the gray-white junction. The clinical team was highly suspicious of a recurrence of her lymphoma so she had an extensive workup, including a brain biopsy, which did not lead to a definite diagnosis. After she died, an autopsy was performed, and multiple necrotic lesions were discovered in her brain. Histologic sections demonstrated numerous parasitic organisms, and immunohistochemical staining for Toxoplasma gondii was positive, confirming the diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis. This case highlights an unusual case of cerebral toxoplasmosis that was diagnosed at autopsy and reviews the relevant radiographic findings as well as the gross and microscopic pathological features of the disease.
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Savsek L, Opaskar TR. Cerebral toxoplasmosis in a diffuse large B cell lymphoma patient. Radiol Oncol 2016; 50:87-93. [PMID: 27069454 PMCID: PMC4825343 DOI: 10.1515/raon-2014-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic protozoal infection that has, until now, probably been an underestimated cause of encephalitis in patients with hematological malignancies, independent of stem cell or bone marrow transplant. T and B cell depleting regimens are probably an important risk factor for reactivation of a latent toxoplasma infection in these patients. Case report We describe a 62-year-old HIV-negative right-handed Caucasian female with systemic diffuse large B cell lymphoma who presented with sudden onset of high fever, headache, altered mental status, ataxia and findings of pancytopenia, a few days after receiving her final, 8th cycle of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, prednisolone (R-CHOP) chemotherapy regimen. A progression of lymphoma to the central nervous system was suspected. MRI of the head revealed multiple on T2 and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintense parenchymal lesions with mild surrounding edema, located in both cerebral and cerebellar hemispheres that demonstrated moderate gadolinium enhancement. The polymerase chain reaction on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF PCR) was positive for Toxoplasma gondii. The patient was diagnosed with toxoplasmic encephalitis and successfully treated with sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine and folic acid. Due to the need for maintenance therapy with rituximab for lymphoma remission, the patient now continues with secondary prophylaxis of toxoplasmosis. Conclusions With this case report, we wish to emphasize the need to consider cerebral toxoplasmosis in patients with hematological malignancies on immunosuppressive therapy when presenting with new neurologic deficits. In such patients, there are numerous differential diagnoses for cerebral toxoplasmosis, and the CNS lymphoma is the most difficult among all to distinguish it from. If left untreated, cerebral toxoplasmosis has a high mortality rate; therefore early recognition and treatment are of essential importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Savsek
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital Celje, Celje, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Ros Opaskar
- Unit of Neurology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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18
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Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a serous parasitic zoonosis caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii worldwide. Human beings acquire the disease by eating infected meat containing T. gondii cysts, by ingesting water or vegetables contaminated with oocysts shed in the feces of an infected cat, and by transmission from mother to fetus. Cerebral toxoplasmosis is one of the most serious complications in immunocompromised individuals such as HIV-infected patients, with a high mortality rate, whereas the incidence of cerebral toxoplasmosis is extremely rare in immunocompetent persons. Due to the low incidence and the high rate of misdiagnosis, cerebral toxoplasmosis was occasionally described in sporadic cases. (1) Furthermore, the diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis is rather difficult because the clinical manifestations are non-specific and are not sufficiently characteristic for a definite diagnosis. It mimics several other infectious diseases or primary central nervous system (CNS) tumor. (2) In the present study, we reported an exceedingly rare cerebral toxoplasmosis with obvious space-occupying lesion occurring in the left temporal lobe of an immunocompetent adult patient. To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful treatment of acquired cerebral toxoplasmosis in China.
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José-López R, de la Fuente C, Pumarola M, Añor S. Intramedullary spinal cord mass presumptively associated with leishmaniasis in a dog. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014; 244:200-4. [PMID: 24378030 DOI: 10.2460/javma.244.2.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
CASE DESCRIPTION A 9-year-old male Miniature Poodle was evaluated because of progressive severe right hemiparesis, right forelimb lameness, and signs of cervical pain. CLINICAL FINDINGS A low body condition score (2/9) and popliteal lymphadenopathy were detected. Results of a CBC, serum biochemical analyses, urinalysis, cytologic examination of bone marrow and popliteal lymph node aspirates, and serum ELISA were consistent with systemic leishmaniasis. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spinal cord revealed an intramedullary mass extending from the caudal aspect of the C5 vertebral body to the C5-6 intervertebral disk space with a contrast medium-enhanced pattern that had 3 zones (central contrast medium-enhanced core, intermediate isointense zone, and peripheral contrast medium-enhanced ring). Surgical biopsy of the mass was performed by means of a right C5-6 dorsal hemilaminectomy. Results of PCR assays for detection of Leishmania DNA in CSF and tissue biopsy samples were positive. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Treatment for systemic leishmaniasis was initiated. Two months later, body condition, neurologic signs, and gait of the dog had substantially improved; the dog had mild right forelimb paresis at that time. Results of follow-up MRI indicated resolution of the cervical spinal cord lesion. Four months after diagnosis, the dog's neurologic condition was stable. CLINICAL RELEVANCE To the authors' knowledge, this report is the first in which clinical findings, clinicopathologic data, and MRI characteristics of an intramedullary inflammatory spinal cord lesion presumptively attributable to leishmaniasis in a dog have been reported, and the first report of CNS leishmaniasis in a dog with MRI resolution and a successful clinical response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto José-López
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain., Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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Cerebellar toxoplasmosis in HIV/AIDS infant: case report and review of the literature. Neurol Sci 2013; 33:1423-8. [PMID: 22286317 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-012-0960-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar mass lesion is an uncommon presentation of toxoplasmosis. The authors report one rare case in an 11-month-old HIV/AIDS female infant who presented with deterioration in her developmental milestones. CT scan revealed a ring-enhancing mass lesion in the right cerebellar hemisphere with secondary obstructive hydrocephalus. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt was inserted prior to posterior fossa decompression and biopsy of the lesion. The specimens obtained were divided into two. One specimen was sent for histological diagnosis immediately after surgery while the second specimen was preserved until the release of the histology report. The initial histopathology report indicated a neoplastic process. Immunohistochemical stains were attempted but interpreted with difficulty due to severe tissue necrosis. After waiting for close to 6 weeks without a definite histological diagnosis, the preserved second specimen was sent for histological analysis as a fresh specimen, and reported a diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. This case presented diagnostic challenges to the authors whose radiological impressions of either a neoplastic lesion or a tuberculoma (based on our local neuroepidemiology) were reinforced by intraoperative findings highly suggestive of tuberculoma but which contrasted with the histological report, first as a neoplastic lesion and later toxoplasmosis. Although cerebellar toxoplasmosis is a rare complication of HIV/AIDS, this case report shows that toxoplasmosis should not be overlooked as a differential diagnosis of ring-enhancing cerebellar masses in HIV/AIDS patients irrespective of the patient's age and the absence of constitutional symptoms of toxoplasmosis.
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21
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Liu QY, Lin XF, Zhang WD, Li HG, Gao M. Retroperitoneal schwannomas in the anterior pararenal space: dynamic enhanced multi-slice CT and MR findings. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 38:201-10. [PMID: 22484919 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-012-9882-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the imaging features of schwannomas in the anterior pararenal space (APS), especially focusing on dynamic enhanced multi-slice CT (MSCT) and MR findings. PATIENTS AND METHODS Eight patients with pathologically proved retroperitoneal schwannomas in the APS underwent dynamic enhanced multi-slice CT (MSCT), while three of these patients also had a contrast-enhanced MR examination. The imaging findings were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS All eight cases exhibited forward displacement of the pancreas, and three cases showed lateral displacement and compression of the inferior vena cava. The tumors had round or oval shape with a maximal axial diameter of 4.0-12.3 cm (average, 6.7 cm). All eight tumors were solitary and well circumscribed. Of the eight retroperitoneal schwannomas in the APS, six exhibited a capsule with thickness of 1.0-2.0 mm, one showed punctate calcification, two displayed cystic degeneration, and three revealed a "target sign" on CT and MR. The tumors were hypo-dense on unenhanced CT images, hyper-intense on T2W images, and homogeneously hypo-intense on T1W images. All eight tumors exhibited gradual enhancement on dynamic enhanced CT or MR images. One case showed delayed enhancement. Heterogeneous enhancement was the dominant pattern occurring in seven out of eight tumors. CONCLUSION The imaging findings of schwannoma in the APS correspond with its pathological composition. Schwannoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of tumors in the APS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Yu Liu
- Department of Radiology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 107 Yan Jiang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong Province, China.
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22
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Mahadevan A, Ramalingaiah AH, Parthasarathy S, Nath A, Ranga U, Krishna SS. Neuropathological correlate of the "concentric target sign" in MRI of HIV-associated cerebral toxoplasmosis. J Magn Reson Imaging 2013; 38:488-95. [PMID: 23440973 PMCID: PMC4442780 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.24036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral toxoplasmosis is a frequent cause of focal brain lesions in the setting of immunodeficiency states, particularly acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important diagnostic modality to differentiate toxoplasmosis from tuberculoma, and primary central nervous system lymphoma with diverse therapeutic implications. Several imaging patterns have been described in cerebral toxoplasmosis. The "concentric target sign" is a recently described MRI sign on T2-weighted imaging of cerebral toxoplasmosis that has concentric alternating zones of hypo- and hyperintensities. It is believed to be more specific than the well-known "eccentric target sign" in the diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis and hence more useful in differentiation from other focal brain lesions in the context of AIDS. The concentric target sign, seen in deep parenchymal lesions, is distinct from the surface-based cortical "eccentric" target sign. The histopathological correlate of the latter has been recently described, but that of the concentric target sign is not known. In this study we describe the neuropathological correlate of this concentric target sign from the postmortem of a 40-year-old man with AIDS-associated cerebral toxoplasmosis. The concentric alternating zones of hypo/hyper/iso/intensities corresponded to zones of hemorrhage/fibrin-rich necrosis with edema/coagulative compact necrosis/inflammation with foamy histiocytes admixed with hemorrhage forming the outermost zone, respectively. The exclusive specificity of this sign in cerebral toxoplasmosis remains to be further elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Mahadevan
- Department of Neuropathology, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
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Jayakumar PN, Chandrashekar HS, Ellika S. Imaging of parasitic infections of the central nervous system. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2013; 114:37-64. [PMID: 23829900 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-53490-3.00004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic infections of the central nervous system (CNS) have increased over the last couple of decades, partly due to a drop in the living conditions of large populations in the world and the AIDS epidemic. Parasitic infections of the CNS are indolent and often life threatening, hence, an early diagnosis is imperative. While brain biopsy and laboratory analysis remain the gold standard for diagnosis, neuroimaging contributes significantly to diagnosis and follow-up. Imaging can demonstrate the extent of infection and complications and possibly, the type of parasitic infection when characteristic features are evident. The disappearance of the parasite or inflammation, gliosis, and/or calcification suggest a therapeutic response. The initial experience of the CT scan has been greatly enhanced by MRI which is currently the imaging modality of choice. This has been due to the greater tissue contrast resolution of MRI and its ability to detect subtle changes in the tissue parenchyma. Advanced techniques such as diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), perfusion imaging (PI), MR angiography (MRA), and MR spectroscopy (MRS) have been used to improve the sensitivity for characterizing the type, viability, and burden of the parasites and the host tissue response. Additionally, it is possible to demonstrate the complications of the primary infection and those secondary to treatment, in some cases.
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24
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Abstract
AbstractCerebral involvement in parasitoses is an important clinical manifestation of most of the human parasitoses. Parasites that have been described to affect the central nervous system (CNS), either as the dominant or as a collateral feature, include cestodes (Taenia solium (neurocysticerciasis), Echinococcus granulosus (cerebral cystic echinococcosis), E. multilocularis (cerebral alveolar echinococcosis), Spirometra mansoni (neurosparganosis)), nematodes (Toxocara canis and T. cati (neurotoxocariasis), Trichinella spiralis (neurotrichinelliasis), Angiostrongylus cantonensis and A. costaricensis (neuroangiostrongyliasis), Gnathostoma spinigerum (gnathostomiasis)), trematodes (Schistosoma mansoni (cerebral bilharziosis), Paragonimus westermani (neuroparagonimiasis)), or protozoa (Toxoplasma gondii (neurotoxoplasmosis), Acanthamoeba spp. or Balamuthia mandrillaris (granulomatous amoebic encephalitis), Naegleria (primary amoebic meningo-encephalitis), Entamoeba histolytica (brain abscess), Plasmodium falciparum (cerebral malaria), Trypanosoma brucei gambiense/rhodesiense (sleeping sickness) or Trypanosoma cruzi (cerebral Chagas disease)). Adults or larvae of helminths or protozoa enter the CNS and cause meningitis, encephalitis, ventriculitis, myelitis, ischaemic stroke, bleeding, venous thrombosis or cerebral abscess, clinically manifesting as headache, epilepsy, weakness, cognitive decline, impaired consciousness, confusion, coma or focal neurological deficits. Diagnosis of cerebral parasitoses is dependent on the causative agent. Available diagnostic tools include clinical presentation, blood tests (eosinophilia, plasmodia in blood smear, antibodies against the parasite), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) investigations, imaging findings and occasionally cerebral biopsy. Treatment relies on drugs and sometimes surgery. Outcome of cerebral parasitoses is highly variable, depending on the effect of drugs, whether they are self-limiting (e.g. Angiostrongylus costaricensis) or whether they remain undetected or asymptomatic, like 25% of neurocysticerciasis cases.
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Kanno A, Suzuki Y, Minami M, Ogawa K, Oishi M, Kamei S. A healthy, 81-year-old woman with toxoplasmic encephalitis. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12:759-61. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0594.2012.00863.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abdel Razek AAK, Watcharakorn A, Castillo M. Parasitic diseases of the central nervous system. Neuroimaging Clin N Am 2011; 21:815-41, viii. [PMID: 22032501 DOI: 10.1016/j.nic.2011.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews the characteristic imaging appearances of parasitic diseases of the central nervous system, including cysticercosis, toxoplasmosis, cystic echinococcosis, schistosomiasis, amebiasis, malariasis, sparganosis, paragonimiasis, and American and African trypanosomiases. Routine precontrast and postcontrast MR imaging helps in localization, characterization, delineation of extension, and follow-up of the parasitic lesions. Moreover, recently developed tools, such as diffusion, perfusion, and MR spectroscopy, help to differentiate parasitic diseases of the central nervous system from simulating lesions. Combining imaging findings with geographic prevalence, clinical history, and serologic tests is required for diagnosis of parasitic diseases of the central nervous system.
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Pyogenic abscess from Providencia stuartii mimicking necrotic tumour at perfusion-weighted imaging. Neurol Sci 2011; 32:919-23. [PMID: 21468679 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-011-0565-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this case report is to increase the knowledge about magnetic resonance spectrum of pyogenic abscesses of the brain. A 74-year-old woman presented with a left frontal lobe cystic mass, developed in the site of post-traumatic contusions after surgical evacuation of a subdural hematoma. MR imaging showed an ipsilateral mass lesion with a thin, regular rim of T1 high-intensity signal, T2 low-intensity signal, and gadolinium-enhancement. Diffusion-weighted imaging with measure of apparent diffusion coefficient value showed inhomogenous diffusion restriction in the lesion core. Perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) demonstrated high relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) in both the lesion wall and perilesional area, with a maximal rCBV ratio (rCBV of the lesion/rCBV of the normal contralateral white matter) of 5.65 and 0.58, respectively. As a result, surgery and pathology showed a pyogenic abscess. Cultures grew were Providencia stuartii species. In conclusion, a pyogenic brain abscess from P. stuartii may show high rCBV at PWI, thus mimicking a necrotic tumour.
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Abstract
This article outlines a practical imaging approach to CNS infection and reviews 5 basic imaging patterns commonly seen: (1) extra-axial lesion, (2) ring-enhancing lesion, (3) temporal lobe lesion, (4) basal ganglia lesion, and (5) white matter abnormality. Opportunistic infections in the setting of HIV are also discussed within the context of these 5 basic imaging patterns. Characteristic imaging features in conjunction with clinical history are also highlighted in order to narrow the differential diagnosis or suggest a specific diagnosis in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley H Aiken
- Division of Neuroradiology, Emory University Hospital, 1364 Clifton Road, Suite BG 26, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Horiuchi K, Yabe I, Tajima Y, Kondo T, Takizawa Y, Yamada H, Sasaki H. [Case of toxoplasma encephalopathy with specific MRI findings, diagnosed by IgG avidity index and nested PCR]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2010; 50:252-6. [PMID: 20411808 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.50.252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We report a 60-year-old woman with toxoplasma encephalopathy. She was being treated with prednisolone and methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis that was diagnosed at the age of 40. In a preoperative examination of her left fifth finger ganglion, pericardial effusions, cardiomegaly, and a right atrial mass were detected. In addition, brain MRI showed nodular shadows in the right thalamus, bilateral globus pallidus, and left dentate nucleus of the cerebellum. T1 and T2 weighted images showed high intensities within those shadows; however, a T1 gadolinium enhancement image showed no contrast enhancement in the lesions. There were no positive neurological findings. Examination of the cerebrospinal fluid and cultivation tests showed nothing particular. The right atrial mass was subsequently diagnosed as malignant lymphoma and treated with radiation therapy. Toxoplasma gondii antibody titers were increased in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Based on IgG avidity index and nested PCR, we diagnosed toxoplasma encephalopathy with chronic T. gondii infection. The T. gondii gene product was also detected in cerebrospinal fluid by nested PCR. We consider that IgG avidity index and nested PCR were useful for the diagnosis of toxoplasma encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Horiuchi
- Department of Neurology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine
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Courand PY, Christin F, Ben Cheikh A, Baillon JJ, Ber CE, Rimmelé T. [Posterior reversible encephalopathy related to tacrolimus in a liver transplanted HIV patient]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 34:29-34. [PMID: 19781881 DOI: 10.1016/j.gcb.2009.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2009] [Revised: 05/01/2009] [Accepted: 07/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Tacrolimus-related posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy (PRLE) is a rare complication which should be recognized by clinicians who regularly use immunosuppressive therapy. We report the case of an HIV-positive, hepatitis C-positive liver transplant patient who presented with this complication. Immunosuppression with tacrolimus was started after postsurgery. On the 20th day, the patient suffered two tonic-clonic convulsive attacks against a background of hypertension. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging and lumbar puncture led to diagnosis of tacrolimus-related PRLE after eliminating other possible diagnoses. Therapeutic management consisted of withdrawing tacrolimus and initiating treatment with antiepileptogenic and antihypertensive drugs, supplemented with magnesium sulphate. The symptoms regressed in the days following withdrawal of tacrolimus and the majority of lesions on magnetic resonance imaging disappeared within two weeks. The aim of which should be to identify patients at risk of developing this complication. This would enable targeted prevention involving magnesium supplementation, strict control of blood pressure and serial monitoring of tacrolimus blood concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- P-Y Courand
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, pavillon P réanimation, hôpital Edouard-Herriot, place d'Arsonval, 69003 Lyon, France.
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