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Evaluation of acute perihematomal regional apparent diffusion coefficient abnormalities by diffusion-weighted imaging
E Fainardi1, M Borrelli, A Saletti
1Neuroradiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy. henryfai@tin.it
Acta Neurochirurgica. Supplement
|May 5, 2006
Summary
Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) reveals vasogenic edema in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. Regional apparent diffusion coefficient (rADC) values were elevated in areas surrounding the hematoma and in contralateral regions, indicating widespread brain tissue changes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) is a severe neurological condition.
- Understanding the extent of brain tissue injury beyond the hematoma is crucial for prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and extent of vasogenic edema in SICH using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI).
- To quantify regional apparent diffusion coefficient (rADC) values in different brain regions surrounding the hematoma.
Main Methods:
- 40 patients with acute supratentorial SICH underwent 1-tesla MRI with DWI within 48 hours of symptom onset.
- Regional apparent diffusion coefficient (rADC) values were measured in perihematomal, normal-appearing ipsilateral, and contralateral brain tissue.
- Regions of interest were drawn on T2-weighted images.
Main Results:
- Mean rADC values were significantly higher in perihematomal and contralateral areas compared to normal-appearing brain tissue (p < 0.001).
- Elevated rADC values, indicative of vasogenic edema, were observed in both ipsilateral and contralateral normal-appearing brain tissue.
- Lower rADC values were noted in the T2 hyperintense rim directly surrounding the clot.
Conclusions:
- Vasogenic edema, as indicated by elevated rADC values, is present in the perihematomal region and extends into normal-appearing brain tissue ipsilateral and contralateral to the SICH.
- These findings suggest a broader impact of SICH on brain tissue integrity than previously recognized.