IMAGING OF CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Abstract:
The diagnosis and monitoring of patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) requires magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI), that should be acquaired according to a standardized and reproductible protocol, consistent
with international guidelines. Hyperintensities on T2 or FLAIR sequences are a very sensitive finding in
patients with MS but is not specific of the underlying pathology. Among patients with clinically isolated
syndrome, the presence of spatially disseminated lesions on the initial MRI is highly predictive of the
conversion to clinically define MS. New sequences such as MR spectroscopy, diffusin tensor imaging,
magnetization transfer imaging allow more sensitive quantification of such alterations. Molecular imaging by
Positrons Emission Tomography is a very promising technique with high tissue specificity. It should improve
our understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in MS.
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