Can cryptococcal meningitis be detected with a brain mri without contrast?

Surveillance: is an important tool in the identification of cryptococcal infections in high risk populations. Guidelines can be found here: http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2011/9789241502979_eng.pdf In the general population symptoms and physical findings would result in a diagnostic spinal tap to make a diagnosis. MRI is indicated when the immune status of the infected individual precludes an inflammatory of antibody response. In that situation an MRI WITH contrast is necessary to identify the presence of infection.