MRI manifestations of severe SSPE in infants

Objective: To improve the understanding of MRI findings in severe SSPE. Methods: The MRI features in 2 cases of severe SSPE confirmed by pathology were reported, and related literature was reviewed. Results: In one case, various degrees of asymmetrical cerebral swelling were seen in bilateral gray matter and white matter under the cortex, and without clear dividing line between gray and white matter, especially in temporal lobe. Abnormal signals were revealed on T1 and T2WI. In another case, lesions in the brain stem, temporal lobe, globus pallidus, putamen, thalamus, and radiate coronet showed hypointense signal on T1WI and hyperintense signal on T2WI with cerebral swelling, and no obviouse cerebral atrophy was found. The local abnormal lesions had occupying effects and enhancement in both cases. Conclusion: Lasting of various degrees of cerebral swelling may be the characteristic sign on MRI in severe SSPE, differing from cerebral atrophy that might be seen in common SSPE. (authors)