J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2005 Jul;38(1):23-27.

Diffusion-weighted Imaging and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Maps for the Evaluation of Pyogenic Ventriculitis

• Kim HS
• Hong JT
• Lee SW
• Son BC
• Sung JH
• Kim MC

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to assess the significance of an apparent diffusion coefficient(ADC) study for diagnosis of ventriculitis. METHODS: Seven patients with ventriculitis were enrolled in this study. Diffusion-weighted(DW) magnetic resonance images(MRI) and ADC maps in the dependent intraventricular collection, periventricular white matter and non-dependent cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) were obtained. The images and ADC data from the different lesions were compared. RESULTS: The DW MRI showed marked hyperintensity in the purulent pus lesion, and the corresponding ADC maps revealed prominent hypointensity and restricted ADC values compared with the non-dependent CSF and normal white matter. CONCLUSION: The decreased ADC value and increased signal intensity of the dependent intraventricular fluid on the DW MRI show restricted water diffusion in the purulent fluid, which is indicative of a pyogenic ventriculitis diagnosis.

Keyword

Pyogenic ventriculitis; Magnetic resonance imaging; Diffusion weighted imaging; Apparent diffusion coefficient

MeSH Terms

Diagnosis
Diffusion*
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Suppuration