MR imaging in neuroborreliosis of the cervical spinal cord.

April 25, 2010

Eur Radiol. 2004 Nov;14(11):2072-Eur Radiol. 2004 Nov;1

Hattingen E, Weidauer S, Kieslich M, Boda V, Zanella FE.

Institute of Neuroradiology, University of Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16,

60528 Frankfurt, Germany. _elkejoerg_ (elkejoerg)

Abstract

The central nervous system is involved in 10-20% of cases in Lyme

disease. The neurological symptoms, time course of the disease and

imaging findings are multifaceted. We report two patients with cervical

radiculitis. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed strong enhancement of

the cervical nerve roots on contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images. These

imaging patterns of borrelia-associated radiculitis have not been

reported before. Knowledge of these imaging features may help to

diagnose neuroborreliosis, which presents with non-specific symptoms.

PMID: 15048581 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Neuroradiology. 2001 Jun;43(6):485-Ne

MRI in Lyme disease of the spinal cord.

Mantienne C, Albucher JF, Catalaa I, Sévely A, Cognard C, Manelfe C.

Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Neuroradiology, Hj^pital

Purpan, Toulouse, France.

Abstract

We report a case of Lyme myelitis in a 31-year-old man, presenting with

a conus medullaris syndrome. MRI demonstrated contrast enhancement on

the pial surface of the lower thoracic cord and conus medullaris.

Elevated blood immunoglobulins and IgM antibodies against Borrelia

burgdorferi in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were found. Leptomeningitis

may be the first stage of spinal infection in Lyme disease, preceding

parenchymal infection leading to myelitis. Vasculitis is probably the

major mechanism. MRI findings are nonspecific and the diagnosis is given

by serum and CSF analyses. Early treatment with antibiotics and high

doses steroids may result in complete recovery, as in this case.

PMID: 11465762 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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