MRI with Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of multiple brain abscesses secondary to Scedosporium apiospermum in two immunocompromised patients

Clin Imaging. 2013 Mar-Apr;37(2):361-6. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2012.04.016. Epub 2012 Jun 8.

Abstract

Scedosporium apiospermum is a deadly fungal infection that can infect the central nervous system, particularly in immunocompromised patients. We present two cases of Scedosporium brain abscesses. The first case was fatal and relevant conventional MRI and MR spectroscopy findings are discussed. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of MR spectroscopy in Scedosporium apiospermum abscesses. In the second case, the patient recovered and conventional MR findings are followed over several months. In the appropriate clinical setting, conventional MR imaging and MR spectroscopy may facilitate diagnosis, earlier initiation of antifungal pharmacotherapy and surgical intervention in this frequently fatal infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Abscess / diagnosis*
  • Brain Abscess / microbiology*
  • Central Nervous System Fungal Infections / diagnosis*
  • Central Nervous System Fungal Infections / microbiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Scedosporium / isolation & purification*