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Magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography in central hypoventilation
D E Weese-Mayer1, R T Brouillette, T P Naidich
1Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Medical School, Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois 60614.
The American Review of Respiratory Disease
|February 1, 1988
Summary
Central hypoventilation syndrome (CHS) involves impaired respiratory control. Imaging in primary CHS showed diffuse brain changes, not specific brainstem lesions, while secondary CHS cases saw improved management with MRI.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Central hypoventilation syndrome (CHS) is a disorder affecting respiratory control.
- Primary CHS is idiopathic, while secondary CHS can result from infections or Chiari II malformation.
- Pathological findings in primary CHS suggest brainstem involvement, including neuronal and fiber density changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate structural brain abnormalities in infants and children with central hypoventilation using MRI and CT.
- To correlate imaging findings with clinical and pathological features of CHS.
- To determine if imaging can guide clinical management.
Main Methods:
- MRI and CT scans of the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord were performed on 17 infants and children with CHS (11 primary, 6 secondary).
- Imaging findings were analyzed for structural abnormalities.
- Clinical care was assessed for modifications based on imaging results.
Main Results:
- In primary CHS, MRI revealed normal brainstems and spinal cords, but 9/11 infants had mild ventricular dilatation and prominent sulci.
- In secondary CHS, Chiari II malformation was identified in 5 infants with characteristic brainstem changes.
- Imaging findings influenced clinical management, leading to symptomatic improvement in two cases of secondary CHS.
Conclusions:
- Primary CHS appears to involve a more diffuse central nervous system process rather than a focal brainstem lesion detectable by current MRI/CT.
- MRI findings in secondary CHS, particularly with Chiari II malformation, can guide surgical interventions for improved respiratory outcomes.
- Imaging plays a crucial role in managing CHS, especially in identifying structural abnormalities that may benefit from surgical correction.