Advanced spinal cord MRI in multiple sclerosis: Current techniques and future directions.

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Radiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is vital for multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis and monitoring.
• Advanced MRI techniques are underutilized in spinal cord research due to technical challenges.
• Despite obstacles, spinal cord imaging holds significant potential for understanding MS pathology.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent advancements in advanced spinal cord MRI for MS research.
• It covers structural, functional, metabolic, and vascular imaging methods.
• The review highlights technical progress, remaining challenges, and potential gains.

Key Points:

• Focus on overcoming technical hurdles in spinal cord MRI for MS.
• Exploration of advanced techniques including ultra-high field MRI.
• Emphasis on improving gray matter imaging and extending imaging beyond the cervical region.

Conclusions:

• Further research is needed to harmonize sequences and analysis methods.
• Developing advanced spinal cord MRI will enhance MS diagnosis and monitoring.
• Future directions include improved study design and novel analytical approaches.