MRI features and disability in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Biostatistics

Background:

• Investigating the relationship between Multiple Sclerosis (MS) disability and brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features is crucial for predicting disease prognosis.
• This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify specific MRI characteristics that correlate with disability measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).

Approach:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
• Peer-reviewed studies reporting correlations between EDSS scores and MRI features were included.
• Correlation coefficients were transformed to the Fisher's z scale for pooled analysis.

Key Points:

• No significant correlation was found between total brain volume and EDSS.
• A significant positive correlation exists between T1 and T2 lesion volumes and MS disability.
• Significant correlations were observed between white matter volume and EDSS, and a negative correlation between gray matter volume and disability.

Conclusions:

• MS-related disability is associated with significant alterations in gray and white matter volumes.
• T1 and T2 weighted MRI lesions are linked to increased disability in MS patients.
• Brain MRI features provide valuable insights into MS disability and prognosis.