Imaging Features of Cerebral and Craniofacial Aspergillosis in the Immunocompetent

Abstract

Aspergillosis is an uncommon fungal infection. It is more common in immunocompromised than in immunocompetent subjects. However, in the Southern Indian population, asymptomatic and symptomatic aspergillosis in immunocompetent individuals is common. The features of aspergillosis are varied and the patterns of the disease are not well described. We evaluated 23 cases of cerebral and craniofacial aspergillosis. Paranasal sinus disease with bony desctruction and contiguous extension into the anterior cranial fossa as extradural masses were common. Isolated mucosal disease and isolated cerebral involvement were unusual patterns. Orbital involvement was also common. Pathologically all the cases showed granulomas; however in one case an additional infarct secondary to vascular occlusion was also noted.