Motor Neuron Diseases and Central Nervous System Tractopathies: Clinical-Radiologic Correlation and Diagnostic...

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Neurology
• Pathology

Background:

• White matter tracts are crucial for sensory and motor functions.
• Tractopathy, or damage to these tracts, can lead to sensory or motor impairments.
• Motor neuron diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), affect motor neurons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the characteristic imaging features of motor neuron diseases and corticospinal tractopathies.
• To highlight the importance of integrating clinical, radiologic, and laboratory findings for diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of MRI findings in various motor neuron diseases and secondary tractopathies.
• Description of characteristic imaging signs, including T2 hyperintensity and the "motor band" sign.

Main Results:

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) shows T2 hyperintensity in the corticospinal tract and "motor band" sign.
• Spinal muscular atrophy presents with anterior horn and muscle atrophy.
• Secondary corticospinal tractopathies exhibit T2-hyperintense lesions on MRI.

Conclusions:

• Distinct imaging features aid in diagnosing motor neuron diseases and tractopathies.
• A comprehensive diagnostic approach is essential for differentiating these conditions.
• MRI plays a key role in identifying white matter tract abnormalities affecting motor function.