title: Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of intramedullary spinal cord abscess.
abstract: Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of adequate treatment are essential for clinical outcome in ISCA. We report a case in which DWI provided a more specific diagnosis than conventional MR imaging and allowed differentiation of a ring-enhancing lesion from intramedullary tumor. Diagnosis was proved by PCR from CSF (Streptococcus intermedius). Adequate antibiotic treatment was immediately initiated, and the patient recovered completely.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, Hirslanden Hospital, Aarau, Switzerland.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Dörflinger-Hejlek
authors.forename: E C
authors.initials: EC
authors.lastname: Kirsch
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Reiter
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Opravil
authors.forename: A H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Kaim
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D038524:Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D020802:Epidural Abscess / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D013116:Spinal Cord / Q000473:pathology*