Clinical and magnetic resonance imaging patterns of extensive Chikungunya virus –associated myelitis

We present three cases of Chikungunya fever complicated with extensive myelitis. The spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pattern is characterized by multiple dotted-like and longitudinal hyperintense lesions, with contrast enhancement, mostly distributed in the peripheral regions of the spinal cord. It seems that these lesions are mostly located in the perivascular spaces (PVS), related or not to virus attack. Involvement of brain PVS can also be demonstrated, as shown in two of the cases described. Considering the MRI pattern, ex tensive spinal cord lesion should include Chikungunya as a differential diagnosis, especially during an outbreak.
Source: Journal of NeuroVirology - Category: Neurology Source Type: research