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Updated: May 15, 2026
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Multiple Sclerosis at 7.0 Tesla
Published on: February 19, 2021
Is it possible to detect active multiple sclerosis plaques using MR thermometry techniques?
Caner Feyzi Demir1, Mehmet Fatih İnci, Fuat Özkan
1Department of Neurology, Firat (Euphrates) University Hospital, Elazığ, Turkey. cfdemir@gmail.com
Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis lesions or plaques are considered to be the result of an inflammatory process in the brain that leads to attack myelin. Inflammation causes disruption of blood-brain barrier in acute, active plaque areas. This process may lead to increase blood supply that causes increase in temperature in these associated areas. These plaques can be seen by examining the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Presence of these plaques plays an important role in indicating dissemination in time within the new diagnostic criteria and in treatment of active MS. Gadolinium-based contrast agents help for quantitative assessment of inflammatory activity and lesion load. However, these agents have serious risks such as anaphylaxis and kidney damage. We wanted to open up a discussion for the feasibility of using noninvasive MR thermometer technique instead of conventional MRI techniques, for evaluating the temperature and the extent of temperature changes of white matter and plaques in MS patients. After successful using of MR thermometer technique with upgraded applications, the time needed to perform the studies in a routine setting can be significantly shortened. With eliminating usage of contrast agent, considerable influx money can be provided along with preventing the adverse effects and risks of contrast agent usage.
Insights
This study explores using a noninvasive MR thermometer technique to measure temperature changes in multiple sclerosis (MS) brain lesions. This method could replace contrast agents, offering a safer and potentially more cost-effective approach for MS assessment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Medical Physics
- Neurology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves inflammatory brain lesions attacking myelin.
- Inflammation disrupts the blood-brain barrier, increasing blood supply and temperature in active plaque areas.
- Conventional MRI with gadolinium contrast agents assesses MS lesion activity but carries risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the feasibility of using a noninvasive MR thermometer technique for evaluating temperature changes in MS brain lesions.
- To explore an alternative to conventional MRI techniques that require contrast agents.
- To assess the potential for improved MS patient management and reduced adverse effects.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing an upgraded MR thermometer technique for noninvasive temperature assessment.
- Comparing the MR thermometer technique with conventional MRI for evaluating MS plaques.
- Focusing on quantitative assessment of temperature variations in white matter and lesions.
Main Results:
- The MR thermometer technique shows promise for evaluating temperature changes associated with MS lesions.
- Upgraded applications of the MR thermometer technique can significantly shorten study times.
- Eliminating contrast agent usage prevents associated adverse effects and risks.
Conclusions:
- The noninvasive MR thermometer technique is a feasible alternative for assessing MS lesion activity.
- This technique offers a safer profile by avoiding gadolinium-based contrast agents.
- Potential benefits include reduced healthcare costs and improved patient safety in MS management.
