Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Nov 2012
ReviewImaging of rickettsial, spirochetal, and parasitic infections.
This article is an update and literature review of the clinical and neuroimaging findings of the commonly known rickettsial, spirochetal, and eukaryotic parasitic infections. Being familiar with clinical presentation and imaging findings of these infections is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment especially in patients who live in or have a travel history to endemic regions or are immunocompromised.
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Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of brain abscess, pyogenic infection, and encephalitis. The role of CT and MRI in the diagnosis and management of pyogenic brain abscess and its complications is reviewed. ⋯ Common causes of encephalitis in immunocompromised patients, and their imaging appearances, are also discussed. When combined with CSF, serologic studies and patient history, imaging findings can suggest the cause of encephalitis.
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Infection of the central nervous system (CNS) in children is an important entity and early recognition is paramount to avoid long-term brain injury, especially in very young patients. The causal factors are different in children compared with adults and so are the clinical presentations. However, imaging features of CNS infection show similar features to those of adults. This article reviews some of the common types of pediatric infections, starting with the congenital (or in utero) infections followed by bacterial infections of the meninges and brain parenchyma.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Nov 2012
ReviewCentral nervous system tuberculosis: pathophysiology and imaging findings.
With the onset of the human immunodeficiency virus pandemic, the incidence of tuberculosis, including central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis, has increased in developed countries. It is no longer a disease confined to underdeveloped and developing countries. ⋯ Imaging plays an important role in the early diagnosis of CNS tuberculosis and may prevent unnecessary morbidity and mortality. This article presents an extensive review of typical and atypical imaging appearances of intracranial tuberculosis, and discusses pathogenesis, patterns of involvement, and advances in imaging of intracranial tuberculosis.
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In cases of central nervous system infection, it is crucial for the neuroradiologist to provide an accurate differential diagnosis of the possible pathogens involved so that treating physicians can be aided in the choice of empiric therapy. This approach requires the radiologist to be aware of local epidemiology and have knowledge of infectious agents that are endemic to their area of practice. This article reviews and discusses the changing epidemiology of pathogens most often observed in meningitis, brain abscess, epidural abscess, postoperative infections, and human immunodeficiency virus infection.