Imaging Evaluation of Intracranial Infections by Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance - A Comparative Study of 50 Cases

BACKGROUND Intracranial infections are a common cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in this era of HIV epidemic. Imaging serves as a vital tool in the evaluation of intracranial infections as signs & symptoms are nonspecific. Both CT and MRI of brain play immense role in the diagnosis & characterisation of intracranial infective lesions, especially the advanced MRI techniques which can determine the in vivo biochemical nature & the metabolic spectra of these lesions. The objective of our study is to determine the imaging characteristics, compare the CT & MRI imaging features of cases of infectious brain lesions referred to the Department of Radiology, GMCH. METHODS After taking proper consent and history, contrast enhanced Computed Tomography & Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the brain were done in all patients of the study group, who were referred to the Radiology Department, on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms. RESULTS 50 cases of intracranial infection were studied and amongst those, males are more commonly affected than females, neuro cysticercosis is the commonest, followed by tuberculosis. Parameters like number & size of lesions, pattern of meningeal involvement, presence of hydrocephalus, MRS, DWI characteristics of the lesions were evaluated. CONCLUSIONS MRI is more accurate than CT in detecting & diagnosing intracranial infections, specially the advanced MRI techniques which can even differentiate between pyogenic, fungal & tubercular abscesses.