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Published on: August 14, 2019
Imaging of neonatal brain emergencies: multisequence MRI analysis of pathologic spectrum including diffusion and MR
Asha Ittoop1, T Thomas Zacharia
1Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
Abstract:
The purpose of this pictorial essay is to review the normal neonatal brain MR anatomy and the MR imaging appearances of neonatal brain emergencies and discuss the advantages of individual MR imaging sequences and the clinical implications of utilizing MRI as a problem-solving modality in the neonatal intensive care unit. Here we briefly discuss the normal MR imaging anatomy and myelination pattern and normal MR spectroscopy findings in a neonate. The role of individual MR imaging sequences in evaluating various neonatal abnormalities is being emphasized. For example, the utility of diffusion-weighted imaging for the diagnosis of profound hypoxic-ischemic injury and other forms of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathies and MR spectroscopy in the diagnosis of metabolic encephalopathies and genetic disorders including aminoacidurias is being presented.
Insights
This pictorial essay reviews neonatal brain MRI anatomy and emergency imaging. It highlights how MRI sequences and spectroscopy aid in diagnosing neonatal brain conditions and injuries.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Neonatal brain development and pathologies require precise diagnostic tools.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers detailed anatomical and functional insights.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for neonatal outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review normal neonatal brain MRI anatomy and myelination.
- To discuss MR imaging appearances of neonatal brain emergencies.
- To emphasize the clinical utility of MRI sequences and MR spectroscopy in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Main Methods:
- Review of normal neonatal brain MR anatomy and myelination patterns.
- Discussion of MR imaging findings in common neonatal brain emergencies.
- Emphasis on the role of specific MRI sequences (e.g., DWI) and MR spectroscopy (MRS) in diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Detailed review of normal neonatal brain MR anatomy and myelination.
- Demonstration of characteristic MRI findings for various neonatal brain emergencies.
- Highlighting the diagnostic advantages of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for hypoxic-ischemic injury and MRS for metabolic/genetic disorders.
Conclusions:
- MRI is a valuable problem-solving tool in the neonatal intensive care unit.
- Specific MRI sequences and MRS are essential for diagnosing diverse neonatal brain conditions.
- Understanding neonatal brain MRI is critical for effective clinical management.