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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Analysis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
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Changes in mild cognitive impairment and its subtypes as seen on diffusion tensor imaging

Senthil Thillainadesan1, Wei Wen, Lin Zhuang

  • 1Brain and Ageing Research Program, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.

International Psychogeriatrics
|March 29, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is linked to white matter and subcortical changes detected by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Specific anterior brain region alterations can differentiate amnestic MCI from non-amnestic MCI.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimaging
  • Neurology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Previous diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies indicate white matter abnormalities in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
  • This study investigates white matter and subcortical region abnormalities in a large cohort of community-dwelling older adults with MCI and its subtypes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine white matter and subcortical region abnormalities in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and its subtypes.
  • To identify diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) markers differentiating MCI subtypes in older adults.

Main Methods:

  • Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was performed on 396 community-dwelling older adults (158 MCI, 238 controls).
  • Regional fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) were calculated and compared between groups.
  • False discovery rate correction was applied for multiple comparisons.

Main Results:

  • MCI subjects showed increased mean diffusivity (MD) in several regions, including the putamen, internal capsule, corpus callosum, and corona radiata, but no significant FA differences compared to controls.
  • Amnestic MCI (aMCI) was associated with changes in the anterior cingulate, superior frontal gyrus, and corona radiata.
  • Non-amnestic MCI (naMCI) showed alterations in the putamen, anterior limb of the internal capsule, and corona radiata.
  • Logistic regression identified left superior frontal gyrus FA and anterior cingulate MD as distinguishing factors between aMCI and naMCI.

Conclusions:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is associated with white matter and subcortical changes detectable by DTI.
  • Specific anterior brain region alterations identified via DTI can differentiate amnestic MCI (aMCI) from non-amnestic MCI (naMCI).

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