Spontaneous Recovery of Reduced Cortical Central Benzodiazepine Receptor Binding Potential on I-123 Iomazenil SPECT in a Patient With Status Epilepticus

Abstract

Abstract: A reduction in cortical benzodiazepine receptor binding potential on late images of I-123 iomazenil SPECT indicates irreversible neural damage or loss. We present the case of a 26-year-old woman with status epilepticus in whom SPECT imaging using I-123 iomazenil and I-123 N-isopropyl-p-iodoamphetamine 7 and 9 days after the last seizure, respectively, demonstrated reduction in central benzodiazepine receptor binding potential with hyperperfusion in the affected cerebral hemisphere and crossed cerebellar hypoperfusion. However, 3 months later, repeat studies showed resolution of the reduction in cortical benzodiazepine receptor binding potential, resolution of hyperperfusion, and resolution of crossed cerebellar hypoperfusion.