Article

The cingulum and fornix are important structures for memory function.
Using follow-up diffusion tensor tractography in a patient with traumatic brain
injury we found degeneration of the cingulum and fornix. CASE REPORT: An
18-year-old male who had had a traffic accident underwent conservative management
for diffuse axonal injury. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed an
encephalomalactic lesion in the posterior portion of the corpus callosum. The
patient had severe cognitive problems at 3 months after onset. However, while his
intelligence had improved, his memory impairment had been aggravated at 14 months
from onset. RESULTS: On the first diffusion tensor tractographies, the integrity
of both corticospinal tracts, right cingulum, and left fornix were preserved;
however, compared with controls, there were disruptions in both ends of the left
cingulum and right fornical crus. On the second diffusion tensor tractographies,
both the cingulum and fornix showed severe degeneration, although the integrities
of both corticospinal tracts were well preserved. CONCLUSION: We conclude that
patients with memory impairment following traumatic brain injury should be
evaluated using diffusion tensor imaging. In addition, follow-up diffusion tensor
imaging may be necessary in patients with sustained memory impairment.

Langue : ANGLAIS