A case of Epstein-Barr encephalitis with some curiosities

Neuroradiol J. 2015 Dec;28(6):559-61. doi: 10.1177/1971400915602802. Epub 2015 Oct 19.

Abstract

We present the magnetic resonance imaging findings of an eight-year-old boy with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) encephalitis, with special attention to lesion neuroanatomic distribution, diffusion-weighted images, and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). T2 and FLAIR-weighted images showed bilateral and symmetric basal nuclei lesions, with diffusion facilitation. MRS of the lesions demonstrated elevated lactate/lipid and excitatory neurotransmitters. The purpose of this report is to alert to this imagiologic pattern of EBV infection, and in particular to the fact that facilitated diffusion does occur on EBV encephalitis.

Keywords: ADC map; Encephalitis; Epstein–Barr virus; magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Basal Ganglia / pathology
  • Child
  • Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Encephalitis, Viral / cerebrospinal fluid
  • Encephalitis, Viral / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / cerebrospinal fluid
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human
  • Humans
  • Lactic Acid / metabolism
  • Lipid Metabolism
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Male
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism
  • Protons

Substances

  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • Protons
  • Lactic Acid