Objective To study the relationship between MRI and histopathological findings of cerebral schistosomiasis,and the value of MRI on this disease. Methods 18 patients with cerebral schistosomiasis proved by pathological examination and laboratory test were enrolled in the study. Plain and Gd DTPA enhanced MRI were performed in all patients with GE 1.5 T MRI scanner. Results The lesions were located in infratentorial region in 7 cases and in supratentorial region in 11. There were three types of pathological pattern in the disease including focal encephalitis and meningiomas (5), granuloma (12), and encephalatrophy (1). Most of the lesions were iso or hypointensity on T 1WI, hyperintensity on T 2WI, with nodules, spot or ring like enhancement, and periphery edema. Conclusion MRI manifestations of cerebral schistosomiasis have specific features,which is a very important tool in early diagnosis and follows up for this disease.