Reversible lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum

Brain and Behavior

Syuichi Tetsuka¹ 

[1] Department of Neurology International University of Health and Welfare Hospital Nasushiobara Japan;

关键词: apparent diffusion coefficient;    cytokine;    cytotoxic edema;    reversible;    splenium of the corpus callosum;   

DOI  :  10.1002/brb3.1440

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Aim of Review The presence of isolated, reversible lesions in the splenium of the corpus callosum (SCC) is essential to confirm the diagnosis of mild encephalitis/encephalopathy. The lesions usually heal within a month after the onset of neurological symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increasingly been used as a diagnostic tool, which has led to the publication of an increasing number of case reports. These have highlighted some inconsistencies about encephalitis/encephalopathy. First, the condition is not always mild and may be severe. Second, reversible lesions in the SCC have been identified in various diseases and conditions other than viral encephalitis/encephalopathy. Third, lesions in SCC are not always completely reversible. On this note, this review describes the specific clinical and radiological features of encephalitis/encephalopathy. Findings The reversible lesion in SCC is an MRI finding observable in a wide variety of diseases and conditions. Thus, it should be considered as a secondary change rather than a peculiar feature associated with mild encephalitis/encephalopathy. If reversible lesions are present in the SCC, the symptoms and prognosis are not necessarily favorable, with manifestations of encephalitis/encephalopathy varying from absent to severe. Neuroradiological features that appear as isolated high‐intensity signals on diffusion‐weighted images and a decreased apparent diffusion coefficient of the lesion might indicate a diagnosis of cytotoxic edema. Findings of previous studies suggest that cytokine‐mediated cytotoxic edema of the SCC may be an important pathophysiological manifestation of this condition. Conclusion The reversible lesions in the SCC found on MRI are not exclusive to encephalitis/encephalopathy but may be secondary to other disorders.

【 授权许可】

Unknown