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Current Concepts in Intracranial Interstitial Fluid Transport and the Glymphatic System: Part II-Imaging Techniques
Jesse M Klostranec1, Diana Vucevic1, Kartik D Bhatia1
1From the Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Montréal Neurologic Institute and Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, 3801 Rue University, Montréal, QC, Canada H3A 2B4 (J.M.K.); Department of Medical Imaging (J.M.K., D.V., K.D.B., H.G.J.K., T.K., K.P.M., K.G.t.B., D.J.M.), Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering (D.V.), and Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery (T.K., K.G.t.B.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Division of Neuroradiology, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada (J.M.K., D.V., K.D.B., H.G.J.K., T.K., K.P.M., K.G.t.B., D.J.M.); Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Department of Radiology, Service of Neuroradiology, l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada (J.M.K.); and Department of Medical Imaging, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, Australia (K.D.B.).
Abstract:
The glymphatic system is a recently discovered network unique to the central nervous system that allows for dynamic exchange of interstitial fluid (ISF) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As detailed in part I, ISF and CSF transport along paravascular channels of the penetrating arteries and possibly veins allow essential clearance of neurotoxic solutes from the interstitium to the CSF efflux pathways. Imaging tests to investigate this neurophysiologic function, although challenging, are being developed and are reviewed herein. These include direct visualization of CSF transport using postcontrast imaging techniques following intravenous or intrathecal administration of contrast material and indirect glymphatic assessment with detection of enlarged perivascular spaces. Application of MRI techniques, including intravoxel incoherent motion, diffusion tensor imaging, and chemical exchange saturation transfer, is also discussed, as are methods for imaging dural lymphatic channels involved with CSF efflux. Subsequently, glymphatic function is considered in the context of proteinopathies associated with neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain injury, cytotoxic edema following acute ischemic stroke, and chronic hydrocephalus after subarachnoid hemorrhage. These examples highlight the substantial role of the glymphatic system in neurophysiology and the development of certain neuropathologic abnormalities, stressing the importance of its consideration when interpreting neuroimaging investigations. © RSNA, 2021.
