Anterior Choroidal Artery Infarction Evaluated with ¹²³I-Imp Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography and 7 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Abstract

Anterior choroidal artery (AchA) infarction remains a challenging diagnosis although it was first described almost 100 years prior. N-isopropyl-p-[¹²³I]-iodoamphetamine single-photon emission computed tomography (¹²³I-IMP SPECT) and 7 Tesla magnetic resonance angiography (7T-MRA) are not routinely performed in cases of AchA infarction. Therefore, the application of ¹²³I-IMP SPECT and 7T-MRA for AchA infarction has not been reported previously. A 67-year-old man presented with disturbed consciousness, gaze preference to the left, aphasia, right homonymous hemianopia, and right hemiparesis. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed infarction of the left posterior limb of the internal capsule. Left middle cerebral artery was clearly seen on MRA. However, ¹²³I-IMP SPECT on day 13 showed cortical hypoperfusion which indicated thalamus involvement with neural deactivation. Additionally, 7T-MRA on day 15 revealed an intact left AchA suggesting reperfusion. The neurological deficits improved gradually after treatment and rehabilitation. This case demonstrates AchA infarction with cortical hypoperfusion associated with thalamus involvement, which was clarified by performing ¹²³I-IMP SPECT and 7T-MRA. Perfusion analysis and evaluation of detailed vascular anatomy in stroke can be expected to elucidate pathological conditions.