Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Poorly Controlled Homocystinuria

Homocystinuria is an inherited metabolic disorder most commonly caused by cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency. Severe cases can cause white matter abnormalities that can mimic other vascular, toxic and metabolic disorders on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. We present such a case which demonstrates not only extensive white matter abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging, but also previously unreported basal ganglia signal abnormalities and imaging manifestations of increased intracranial pressure, likely caused by elevated methionine and betaine therapy. We also review the literature and discuss the potential underlying biologic mechanisms of these imaging findings.