Spinal Cord Imaging in Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Neurology
• Radiology

Background:

• Spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is vital for multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis and prognosis.
• Demyelinating disorders, including MS, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-associated disease (MOGAD), affect the spinal cord.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anatomical, pathological, imaging, and prognostic considerations for spinal cord MRI in MS.
• To discuss other significant demyelinating disorders affecting the spinal cord.
• To explore differential diagnostic considerations for spinal cord MRI in MS and related conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on spinal cord MRI in demyelinating diseases.
• Synthesis of information regarding anatomical, pathological, and prognostic factors.
• Analysis of imaging features for differential diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Spinal cord MRI reveals characteristic patterns in MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD.
• Understanding anatomical and pathological substrates enhances MRI interpretation.
• Prognostic information can be derived from spinal cord MRI findings.

Conclusions:

• Spinal cord MRI is indispensable for diagnosing and managing MS and related disorders.
• Distinguishing between MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD based on MRI is critical.
• Comprehensive review aids clinicians in accurate differential diagnosis using spinal cord MRI.