Original report - Unique linear and nodular MR enhancement pattern in schistosomiasis of the central nervous system: Report of three patients

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this paper is to describe the unique MR imaging a ppearance of schistosomiasis of the central nervous system (CNS). CONCLUSION. Contrast-enhanced TI-weighted MR images in all three patients w ith CNS schistosomiasis revealed a central linear enhancement surrounded by multiple enhancing punctate nodules, forming an "arborized" appearance. Pa thologically; this enhancement pattern correlated with a host granulomatous response to Schistosoma species ova. Although the pattern is not present i n all cases of CNS schistosomiasis, when it is observed, a diagnosis of CNS schistosomiasis should be considered.