Abnormal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease following corneal transplantations

Alejandro A. Rabinstein, Michelle L. Whiteman, Robert T. Shebert

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

29 Scopus citations

Abstract

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. Conclusion: 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.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)637-639
Number of pages3
JournalArchives of neurology
Volume59
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous)
  • Clinical Neurology

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