Abnormal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease following corneal transplantations.
BACKGROUND
The value of magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in the diagnosis of iatrogenic cases of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease has been questioned.


OBJECTIVE
To illustrate the value of magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in the diagnosis of iatrogenic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.


METHODS
Case report.


RESULTS
A patient with a history of 3 corneal transplantations exhibited the alien hand sign on initial examination. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed prominent cortical diffusion abnormalities. During the following months, the patient developed rapidly progressive dementia. The diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease was proven by brain biopsy.


CONCLUSIONS
Brain magnetic resonance imaging, particularly diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, can be very helpful in the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, even in suspected iatrogenic cases.
Rabinstein
Alejandro A
AA
University of Miami School of Medicine D4-5, PO Box 016960, Miami, FL 33101, USA. alerabas@yahoo.com
Whiteman
Michelle L
ML
Shebert
Robert T
RT
D001921:Brain / Q000473:pathology*; D016039:Corneal Transplantation; D007562:Creutzfeldt-Jakob Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests