MR imaging of central nervous system tuberculosis

Abstract

TB involving the CNS and its coverings is a complex and potentially devastating disease. The increasing incidence of this disease in both immunologically normal as well as immunologically incompetent populations makes the subject of TB one of universal concern. Although its appearance on MR is not specific, it is important in the proper clinical setting to recognize the range of possible patterns that can be observed on images. The inclusion of TB in the differential diagnosis on the basis of the patient's region of origin, the socioeconomic background of the patient, and the presence of underlying predisposing disease may potentially promote timely initiation of appropriate therapy.