Abnormal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease following corneal transplantations.

BACKGROUND The value of magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in the diagnosis of iatrogenic cases of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease has been questioned. OBJECTIVE To illustrate the value of magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in the diagnosis of iatrogenic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. METHODS Case report. RESULTS A patient with a history of 3 corneal transplantations exhibited the alien hand sign on initial examination. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed prominent cortical diffusion abnormalities. During the following months, the patient developed rapidly progressive dementia. The diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease was proven by brain biopsy. CONCLUSION Brain magnetic resonance imaging, particularly diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, can be very helpful in the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, even in suspected iatrogenic cases.