Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Manganism: A Narrative Review and Laboratory Recommendations

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Manganism, a neurodegenerative condition, results from manganese exposure.
• Affected populations include industrial workers, welders, individuals with liver disease, and ephedrone abusers.
• Symptoms encompass motor, cognitive, sleep, and psychosocial disturbances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in manganism.
• To identify accessible laboratory parameters that can complement MRI in diagnosing manganese toxicity.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic guidance offered by MRI detection of brain manganese accumulation.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on MRI in manganism.
• Analysis of potential clinical laboratory markers associated with manganese exposure.
• Correlation of MRI findings with clinical symptoms and laboratory results.

Main Results:

• MRI is crucial for detecting manganese deposition in the brain, confirming manganism.
• Elevated manganese levels in specific brain regions are visualized via MRI.
• Laboratory parameters like bilirubin, magnesium, liver enzymes, creatinine, hemoglobin, and hematocrit may assist in diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive review of MRI in manganism is needed.
• MRI is a valuable tool for diagnosing and managing manganism.
• Integrating simple laboratory tests with MRI can improve diagnostic efficiency and accessibility.