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Co-analysis of Brain Structure and Function using fMRI and Diffusion-weighted Imaging
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MRI profiling of focal cortical dysplasia using multi-compartment diffusion models
Sara Lorio1,2, Sophie Adler1, Roxana Gunny3
1Developmental Neurosciences, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
Epilepsia
|February 18, 2020
Summary
New diffusion imaging techniques, spherical mean technique (SMT) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), show promise for focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) lesion detection. Intracellular volume fraction (ICVF) and intra-neurite volume fraction (INVF) maps offer better lesion characterization than standard MRI.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Radiology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) diagnosis and subtyping are challenging with conventional MRI.
- Advanced diffusion MRI models like SMT and NODDI may offer more specific microstructural tissue characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate SMT and NODDI diffusion maps for FCD lesion characterization.
- To compare these advanced diffusion metrics against standard FA and MD for radiological and computational analysis.
Main Methods:
- Calculated SMT, NODDI, FA, and MD maps for 33 pediatric patients with suspected FCD.
- Assessed lesion visibility and quantified signal profile changes using a surface-based approach.
- Statistically compared diffusion parameter changes between FCD types IIa and IIb.
Main Results:
- NODDI's intracellular volume fraction (ICVF) and SMT's intra-neurite volume fraction (INVF) showed improved lesion conspicuity compared to FA and MD.
- Significant reductions in ICVF and INVF were observed in FCD lesions, with greater changes in FCD type IIb.
- No significant changes were detected on FA or MD maps.
Conclusions:
- ICVF and INVF maps reveal FCD-specific signal changes not apparent on FA or MD.
- These advanced diffusion metrics can enhance pediatric epilepsy imaging protocols and aid automated lesion detection.
