Clinical proton MR spectroscopy in central nervous system disorders

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• Clinical Neurology

Background:

• Proton (hydrogen 1 [(1)H]) magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy has transitioned from a research technique to a valuable clinical neuroimaging modality.
• Published research demonstrates the growing impact of (1)H MR spectroscopy in patient management across various central nervous system disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize brain disorders where (1)H MR spectroscopy influences patient management.
• To critically review common data acquisition and processing procedures for (1)H MR spectroscopy.
• To provide guidelines for expanded clinical acceptance and standardization of MR spectroscopy methodology.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on the clinical applications of (1)H MR spectroscopy.
• Critical analysis of data acquisition and processing techniques.
• Development of guidelines for quality assessment and interpretation.

Main Results:

• Established clinical utility of (1)H MR spectroscopy in brain neoplasms, neonatal/pediatric disorders (hypoxia-ischemia, inherited metabolic diseases, TBI), demyelinating disorders, and infectious lesions.
• Expanding applications in neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, and stroke.
• Guidelines provided for data acquisition, analysis, quality assessment, and interpretation to promote standardization.

Conclusions:

• (1)H MR spectroscopy is a clinically useful tool for evaluating a wide range of central nervous system disorders.
• Standardized methodology and technical advancements are crucial for wider clinical adoption.
• Recommendations are offered to expedite the integration of robust MR spectroscopy into routine clinical practice.