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MRI Mapping of Cerebrovascular Reactivity via Gas Inhalation Challenges
Published on: December 17, 2014
Measuring cerebrovascular reactivity: what stimulus to use?
J Fierstra1, O Sobczyk, A Battisti-Charbonney
1J. Duffin: Department of Physiology, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King's College Circle, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8. j.duffin@utoronto.ca.
The Journal of Physiology
|October 2, 2013
Summary
Cerebrovascular reactivity studies need standardized stimuli. This review finds carbon dioxide (CO2) the most suitable, especially with new computer-controlled delivery systems for reliable testing.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Science
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) measures changes in cerebral blood flow due to stimuli.
- Understanding CVR variations aids in comprehending cerebral blood flow control and detecting cerebrovascular diseases.
- Standardized methods for CVR measurement exist, but vasoactive stimuli lack uniformity, hindering inter-study comparisons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review current vasoactive stimuli used in CVR studies.
- To assess stimuli for standardization, repeatability, and practical implementation.
- To identify the most suitable stimulus for reliable CVR assessment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cerebrovascular reactivity stimuli.
- Analysis of challenges including induced hypotension, acetazolamide, and carbon dioxide administration.
- Examination of computer-controlled MRI-compatible gas delivery systems.
Main Results:
- Current vasoactive stimuli often lack standardization and repeatability across individuals and over time.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) is identified as the most suitable vasoactive stimulus.
- New computer-controlled gas delivery systems offer reliable and repeatable CO2 administration.
Conclusions:
- Standardization of vasoactive stimuli is crucial for advancing cerebrovascular research.
- Carbon dioxide presents the most promising stimulus for reproducible CVR measurements.
- Technological advancements in gas delivery systems enhance the reliability of CO2-based CVR testing.
