The Capacity for Computed Tomography Diagnosis of Cerebral Infarction

Abstract

The characteristic serial CT [computed tomography] scan appearance of cerebral infarction created by embolization of the middle cerebral artery in the nonhuman primate (10 baboons [Papio cynocephalus or P. anubis] was defined. The earliest CT changes were noted by 12-24 h and included generalized ventricular enlargement and a focal region of decreased absorption in the opercula-basal ganglia region. The area of diminished brain absorption was better circumscribed and of lower attenuation coefficient with increasing chronicity. Distinct hydrocephalus, unilateral exophthalmos and ventricular displacement occurred with increased intracranial pressure. Little additional diagnostic information was obtained via i.v. enhancement, and care should be taken as mild enhancement may obscure an area of abnormality.