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Role of diffusion tensor imaging as an independent predictor of cognitive and language development in extremely

U Pogribna1, K Burson, R E Lasky

  • 1From the Division of Neonatology (U.P., K.B., R.E.L., P.W.E., N.A.P.).

AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|September 21, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) at term-equivalent age can predict cognitive and language development in extremely preterm infants. This neuroimaging technique offers valuable insights into neurodevelopmental outcomes for high-risk newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal neuroimaging
  • Developmental neuroscience
  • Pediatric neurology

Background:

  • Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) at term can predict cerebral palsy.
  • Limited data exists on DTI's ability to predict cognitive and language development in extremely preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate if regional DTI measures at term-equivalent age predict Bayley III developmental scores in extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW) infants.
  • Compare white matter microstructural development and neurodevelopmental outcomes of ELBW infants with healthy term controls.

Main Methods:

  • DTI scans analyzed for fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity in 7 vulnerable cerebral regions in 42 ELBW and 16 term infants.
  • Bayley mental scale score (cognitive and language) as primary outcome; multiple linear regression used to assess DTI's predictive ability.

Main Results:

  • ELBW infants showed significantly higher mean diffusivity and lower fractional anisotropy in 6 of 7 regions compared to term controls.
  • Centrum semiovale mean diffusivity predicted mental and language scores; subventricular zone fractional anisotropy predicted cognitive scores.
  • Increased centrum semiovale mean diffusivity correlated with lower mental scale scores in ELBW infants.

Conclusions:

  • Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) independently predicts later cognitive and language development in extremely low-birth-weight infants.
  • DTI is a valuable tool for assessing neurodevelopmental risks in preterm infants.
Abstract

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