Diagnostic role of target lesion on diffusion-weighted imaging: a case of cerebral aspergillosis and review of the literature.

Background/purpose: Target lesions on diffusion-weighted imaging are uncommon and their significance not well appreciated. To assess the diagnostic value of this neuroimaging finding, a case of cerebral aspergillosis is presented and the literature reviewed.

Methods: The diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging features of target lesions in a case of cerebral aspergillosis with neuropathologic correlate is presented and 8 other cases manifesting this neuroimaging finding are reviewed for etiology, patient immune status, lesion number, enhancement, and location.