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Brain Infarct Segmentation and Registration on MRI or CT for Lesion-symptom Mapping
Published on: September 25, 2019
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Spinal infarcts
1Inserm U 1172, CHU de Lille, University of Lille, Lille, France; Stroke unit, Department of Neurology, CHU de Lille, Lille, France.
Revue Neurologique
|March 29, 2021
Summary
Spinal cord ischemia is rare, causing sudden paralysis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is key for diagnosis, distinguishing it from other spinal cord issues. Treatment focuses on managing complications and underlying causes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Spinal cord ischemia is infrequent compared to cerebral ischemia.
- Spinal infarcts result in severe neurological deficits, often abrupt tetraplegia or paraplegia.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the causes, diagnostic methods, and current management of spinal cord ischemia.
- To highlight the role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in diagnosing spinal infarcts.
- To differentiate spinal cord ischemia from other acute spinal cord syndromes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on spinal cord ischemia.
- Analysis of diagnostic utility of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
- Examination of etiological factors in Western countries.
Main Results:
- Spinal cord ischemia is rare, presenting with acute, complete paralysis.
- MRI is the primary imaging modality for diagnosing spinal infarcts and excluding other conditions like myelitis or compression.
- Common causes in Western nations include aortic diseases (atherosclerosis, aneurysm, dissection) and iatrogenic factors from aortic surgery or interventional radiology.
Conclusions:
- Spinal cord ischemia requires prompt diagnosis, with MRI being essential.
- Aortic diseases and iatrogenic causes are predominant in Western populations.
- Management involves addressing complications, the underlying etiology, and rehabilitation; no specific treatment exists for the infarct itself.
