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Tuberculosis of the central nervous system: overview of neuroradiological findings

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Abstract.

This article presents the range of manifestations of tuberculosis (TB) of the craniospinal axis. Central nervous system (CNS) infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis occurs either in a diffuse form as basal exudative leptomeningitis or in a localized form as tuberculoma, abscess, or cerebritis. In addition to an extensive review of computed tomography and magnetic resonance features, the pathogenesis and the relevant clinical setting are discussed. Modern imaging is a cornerstone in the early diagnosis of CNS tuberculosis and may prevent unnecessary morbidity and mortality. Contrast-enhanced MR imaging is generally considered as the modality of choice in the detection and assessment of CNS tuberculosis.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, University of Antwerp, Wilrijkstraat 10, 2650 Edegem, Belgium

    A. Bernaerts, F. M. Vanhoenacker, P. M. Parizel, J. W. M. Van Goethem, J. De Roeck & A. M. De Schepper

  2. Department of Radiology, AZ St-Maarten, Campus Duffel, Rooienberg 25, 2750 Duffel, Belgium

    A. Bernaerts & F. M. Vanhoenacker

  3. Tuberculosecentrum Beatrixoord, Dilgtweg 5, 9751 ND Haren, The Netherlands

    R. van Altena

  4. Department of Radiology, AZ St-Jan, Ruddershove 10, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

    V. Coeman

  5. Department of Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Wilrijkstraat 10, 2650 Edegem, Belgium

    A. Laridon

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  1. A. Bernaerts
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  2. F. M. Vanhoenacker
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Correspondence to F. M. Vanhoenacker.

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Bernaerts, A., Vanhoenacker, F.M., Parizel, P.M. et al. Tuberculosis of the central nervous system: overview of neuroradiological findings. Eur Radiol 13, 1876–1890 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-002-1608-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-002-1608-7

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