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Diffusion MRI: apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in the normal brain and a classification of brain
1Department of Radiology, Ege University Hospital, Bornova, 35100, Izmir, Turkey. rnsener@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Diffusion-weighted imaging, dependent on motion of water molecules, provides information regarding tissue integrity. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in the normal brain parenchyma, and those in a variety of lesions were studied by echo-planar diffusion MRI in 310 cases. Brain disorders were classified based on their ADC values, taking the ADC values of the normal brain white matter as the principal category. In the normal white matter ADC ranges were 0.60-1.05x10(-3)mm(2)/s, and the mean ADC value was 0.84+/-0.11x10(-3)mm(2)/s. It was possible to distribute brain disorders, as well as artefacts on diffusion MRI to five major categories: category 1, ADC similar to normal white matter; category 2, ADC lower than normal white matter; category 3, ADC higher than normal white matter; category 4, ADC similar to CSF; and category 5, markedly low or high ADC. Further studies can provide addition of different lesions as well as refinements of these categories.
Insights
Diffusion-weighted imaging uses apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values to classify brain disorders. This study categorizes various brain conditions and artifacts based on their ADC values relative to normal white matter.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Radiology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is sensitive to water molecule motion, reflecting tissue integrity.
- Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values quantify this diffusion, offering insights into tissue microstructure.
- Understanding ADC variations is crucial for diagnosing brain pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a classification system for brain disorders and imaging artifacts based on ADC values.
- To correlate ADC values with different types of brain lesions and normal brain parenchyma.
- To provide a framework for interpreting diffusion MRI findings.
Main Methods:
- Echo-planar diffusion MRI was employed in 310 cases.
- ADC values were measured in normal brain white matter and various lesions.
- Brain disorders and artifacts were categorized into five groups based on their ADC values relative to normal white matter.
Main Results:
- Normal white matter ADC values ranged from 0.60-1.05x10(-3)mm(2)/s (mean 0.84+/-0.11x10(-3)mm(2)/s).
- A five-category system was developed: ADC similar to, lower than, higher than normal white matter, similar to CSF, or markedly low/high.
- This classification successfully grouped diverse brain disorders and artifacts.
Conclusions:
- ADC value-based categorization provides a systematic approach to interpreting diffusion MRI.
- This framework aids in differentiating various brain pathologies and artifacts.
- Further research can refine these categories and include additional lesion types.