Toluene-induced leukoencephalopathy with characteristic magnetic resonance imaging findings

Abstract

Toluene-induced leukoencephalopathy is a frequently seen medical condition worldwide; however the lack of specific clinical manifestations and laboratory tests makes it difficult to diagnose. Neuroimaging and medical history are often crucial to diagnosis of this disorder. In this report, a case is presented of a patient suffering from toluene-induced leukoencephalopathy with deteriorating cognition impairment and characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, typified by a sunflower-like change in T2-weighted imaging. In addition, the pharmacokinetic properties of toluene are reviewed, as well as the clinical manifestations, typical MRI findings, neuropathology, possible mechanism, and treatment of toluene-induced leukoencephalopathy.