[Diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance tomography and tractography in multiple sclerosis: a review]

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Neurology
• Pathophysiology

Context:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of neurological disability in young adults.
• Conventional MRI is crucial for MS diagnosis and monitoring.
• Emerging MRI techniques offer deeper insights into MS pathogenesis.

Purpose:

• This review examines the application of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and tractography in multiple sclerosis.
• It focuses on their use in assessing brain and spinal cord damage across various MS phenotypes.
• The review correlates diffusion indices with clinical disability and discusses pathogenetic mechanisms.

Summary:

• DTI and tractography visualize microstructural changes in white and grey matter in MS.
• Specific diffusion indices reflect the extent of pathological damage.
• These imaging modalities correlate with the degree of neurological disability in patients.

Impact:

• Advanced MRI techniques like DTI and tractography enhance understanding of MS.
• They provide objective measures of disease burden and progression.
• This knowledge aids in developing targeted therapeutic strategies for multiple sclerosis.