MRI of neurosyphilis presenting as mesiotemporal abnormalities: a case report

Korean J Radiol. 2009 May-Jun;10(3):310-2. doi: 10.3348/kjr.2009.10.3.310. Epub 2009 Apr 22.

Abstract

The high signal intensities in bilateral mesiotemporal lobes on T2-weighted images are typical findings of herpes encephalitis or paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis. We report a case of neurosyphilis with mesiotemporal involvement on MRI. Positive antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid confirmed the diagnosis. The results suggest that neurosyphilis should be considered when MRI results indicate mesiotemporal abnormalities.

Keywords: Magnetic resonance (MR); Mesial temporal lesions; Neurosyphilis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Biopsy, Needle
  • Chancre / diagnosis
  • Chancre / pathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Encephalitis, Herpes Simplex / diagnosis
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Limbic Encephalitis / diagnosis
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Neurosyphilis / diagnosis*
  • Neurosyphilis / drug therapy
  • Neurosyphilis / pathology
  • Penicillins / administration & dosage
  • Rare Diseases
  • Temporal Lobe / pathology*
  • Tongue / pathology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Penicillins