Mycoplasma-like structures in granulomatous angiitis of the central nervous system. Case reports with light and electron microscopic studies.

Abstract

Two patients had granulomatous angiitis of the central nervous system. The typical vasculitis involved the small branches of the cerebral arteries in both patients and resulted in thrombosis of the left middle cerebral artery in one. Electron microscopy demonstrated structures resembling Mycoplasma organisms. These were present in small numbers in the wall and in the granulomatous reaction within the lumen. Giant cells were observed cintaining particles suggestive of Mycoplasma within the perinuclear cisternae. Virus-like particles were not observed.