Acute hypertensive encephalopathy: findings on spin-echo and gradient-echo MR imaging.

Abstract

MR imaging is efficacious in revealing deep ganglionic and posterior fossa edema, which is characteristic of hypertensive encephalopathy. Serial MR studies are necessary to distinguish transient edema from permanent zones of infarction. Gradient-echo MR imaging is particularly valuable in visualizing petechial hemorrhages, the presence of which distinguishes nonspecific white matter disease from an acute or prior episode of hypertensive encephalopathy and serves as a permanent marker of this disease.