Which finding on cranial imaging BEST differentiates congenital toxoplasmosis from congenital CMV infection?
- A Periventricular calcifications
- B Diffuse scattered intracranial calcifications throughout the brain parenchyma ✓
- C Cortical atrophy
- D Ventriculomegaly
Correct answer: B. Diffuse scattered intracranial calcifications throughout the brain parenchyma
Explanation
Congenital toxoplasmosis characteristically produces diffuse, scattered calcifications throughout the brain parenchyma, whereas CMV classically causes periventricular calcifications. This distinction is well described in standard pediatric and radiology texts. Ventriculomegaly can occur in both, and cortical atrophy is nonspecific.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.