Chiasmitis caused by Mycobacterium haemophilum in an immunocompromised adult.

Publication Type	Case Report
Authors	Sogani J, Ivanidze J, Phillips C
Journal	Clin Imaging
Volume	38
Issue	5
Pagination	727-9
Date Published	02/28/2014
ISSN	1873-4499
Keywords	Eye Infections, Bacterial, Immunocompromised Host, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Mycobacterium Infections, Mycobacterium haemophilum, Optic Chiasm, Optic Nerve Diseases
Abstract	We report a case of chiasmitis caused by a rare nontuberculous mycobacterium in an immunocompromised patient. A 44-year-old man with a history of AIDS presented with recurrent vision loss and headache. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated an enhancing mass involving the optic chiasm. Histopathologic and microbiological evaluation revealed infection with Mycobacterium haemophilum. While combination antimicrobial and steroid therapy contributed to improvement in his vision, the patient's symptoms recurred. Follow-up MRI showed extension of infection to the hypothalamus and leptomeninges, indicative of basilar meningitis. MRI is a valuable tool for early diagnosis of chiasmitis as well as for monitoring infection progression and treatment response.
DOI	10.1016/j.clinimag.2014.02.012
PubMed ID	24908366