[Role of cerebral magnetic resonance angiography in childhood]

This study evaluates the role of cerebral MR Angiography (MRA), as a part of the flowchart for the assessment of the brain in childhood. This noninvasive technique provides intra- and extra-cranial anatomic and physiologic vascular information, with a level of precision almost equal to that of arterial angiography. Indeed, MRA has reached a level of diagnostic accuracy such that the need for arterial angiography can be avoided, in most cases of cerebrovascular disorder. Therefore arterial angiography could be performed at the subacute (and more neurologically stable) stage, or presurgically, yielding additional morphologic and hemodynamic insights into cerebrovascular disease. MRA is also indicated at follow-up examination, and in treatment planning.