Radiology, Vol 132, 425-429, Copyright © 1979 by Radiological Society of North America
Sensitivity of radionuclide brain scan and computed tomography in early detection of viral meningoencephalitis
EE Kim, FH DeLand and J Montebello
The sensitivity of radionuclide imaging and computed tomography (CT) was
evaluated in 25 patients for early detection of viral meningoencephalitis.
Diagnosis was based on clinical evidence, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
studies, electroencephalography (EEG) and radionuclide imaging. Computed
tomography with contrast enhancement was performed within four days after
onset of neurological signs or symptoms in 23 patients; no significant
findings such as low-absorption abnormalities, mass effect or abnormal
enhancement were seen. Radionuclide imaging demonstrated a sensitivity of
90% in the detection of viral meningoencephalitis; the temporal lobe was
most commonly involved in patients with herpes encephalitis. Radionuclide
imaging should be considered as the first diagnostic procedure in suspected
early viral meningoencephalitis.
