Pediatric reference values of anterior visual pathway structures measured with axis-correction on high-resolution 3D...

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Pediatric Radiology
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Anterior visual pathway (AVP) structure size is influenced by age and pathology.
• Standard MRI planes are insufficient for accurate AVP measurements.
• Normative data is crucial for diagnosing AVP abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate normative, age-related, and axis-corrected data for AVP structures.
• To utilize multiplanar reformation (MPR) of high-resolution 3D T2-weighted fast spin echo (3D T2w FSE) images.
• To establish a reliable reference for AVP dimensions in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• Acquired 32 measurements of AVP structures in 145 children (2 months - 18 years) using high-resolution 3D T2w FSE MRI.
• Adjusted images to the specific axis of each AVP structure.
• Applied descriptive statistics and growth models to develop a formal statistical inference model.

Main Results:

• Compiled reference tables and prediction plots for AVP structures based on age, height, and body surface area (BSA).
• Accounted for MRI field strength (1.5 vs. 3T) in the statistical model.
• Identified reliable measurements, including globe diameter and optic nerve sheath dimensions, with some structures showing no significant age-related change.

Conclusions:

• Established detailed reference charts and prediction plots for AVP structures using axis-corrected measurements.
• Provided an Excel spreadsheet for calculating normative values for key AVP structures.
• The study offers a valuable tool for quantitative assessment of AVP development and pathology.