Neurocandidiasis: a case report and consideration of the causes of restricted diffusion

Abstract

Diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging has risen to the forefront of imaging for acute stroke. However, the differential diagnosis of restricted diffusion is wide and includes ischemia, metabolic derangements, infections, and highly-cellular masses. We present a case of central nervous system (CNS) candidiasis presenting radiographically as bilateral punctate areas of restricted magnetic resonance (MR) diffusion in the basal ganglia. This case illustrates the value of carefully considering the causes of restricted diffusion in the brain, notably to be broader than acute stroke and to include invasive fungal infections.