An intracranial aspergilloma with low signal on T2-weighted images corresponding to iron accumulation

Neuroradiology. 2001 Jul;43(7):559-61. doi: 10.1007/s002340000535.

Abstract

We present a case of cerebral aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient. The MRI signal characteristics were compared with the histologic findings. Irregular low-signal zones were demonstrated between the wall of the abscess and the central necrosis on T2-weighted images; the pathology specimen revealed concentrated iron in these transitional zones but no hemosiderin. Iron is an essential element for the growth of fungal hyphae. The low-signal zones may represent the areas where there was active proliferation of aspergillus, and the unique location of the low signal may be a helpful imaging characteristic for the diagnosis of an aspergillus abscess.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aspergillosis / diagnosis*
  • Aspergillosis / immunology
  • Central Nervous System Fungal Infections / diagnosis*
  • Central Nervous System Fungal Infections / immunology
  • Ethmoid Sinus / immunology
  • Ethmoid Sinus / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Immunocompetence
  • Iron / metabolism
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male

Substances

  • Iron