Brain Abscess (Caused by Prototheca)
- Prototheca is a genus of algae, specifically Chlorellacea.
- It rarely affects humans. Skin infections have been reported. Brain abscess is rare.
- Key Diagnostic Features: Ring-enhancing, predominantly necrotic lesion(s) with associated surrounding edema. The ring of the lesion also demonstrates hypointense signal on T2WI. Unlike a typical abscess, there is no obvious diffusion restriction.
- DDx: Pyogenic abscess, fungal abscess, mycobacterial infections, tumor
- Rx: Amphotericin