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Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
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MRI utilization during the diagnostic and post-diagnostic phases in multiple sclerosis
José M A Wijnands1, Okechukwu Ekuma2, Elaine Kingwell1
1Medicine (Neurology), University of British Columbia and The Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada.
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
|December 31, 2018
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) use in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients shows equitable access across socioeconomic status, sex, and region. However, age and disease-modifying therapy influence MRI frequency.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Medical Imaging
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Understanding MRI utilization patterns in MS populations is limited.
- Socioeconomic status (SES) disparities in MRI use are known, but their persistence in centrally managed MS care is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) use in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) compared to controls.
- To investigate the association between MRI utilization and participant characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized administrative and clinical data from Manitoba, Canada.
- Assessed MRI use in MS and control groups across three phases: pre-index, between index and diagnosis, and post-diagnosis.
- Employed zero-inflated Poisson regression to analyze associations between participant characteristics and MRI frequency.
Main Results:
- MRI use increased over time, notably more in MS cases than controls.
- Younger individuals (<50 years) had lower pre-index MRI rates.
- No significant associations were found between MRI use and sex, SES, or region.
- Disease-modifying therapy use correlated with a 25% increase in post-diagnosis MRIs in the clinical cohort.
Conclusions:
- Findings indicate equitable access to MRI for MS patients regardless of sex, region, or SES.
- Age and disease-modifying therapy are identified as factors influencing MRI frequency in MS care.
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