Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Neurography-Technique, Current Perspectives, and Future Directions

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging Science
• Neurology and Neuroscience
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Peripheral nervous system (PNS) disorders require comprehensive evaluation.
• Conventional imaging methods may have limitations in visualizing the entire PNS.
• Whole-body magnetic resonance neurography (WBMRN) emerges as a promising radiation-free modality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline imaging approaches for whole-body MR imaging.
• To discuss indications and imaging differences of WBMRN.
• To evaluate the role of WBMRN in diagnosing and monitoring neuropathic diseases.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes advanced MR sequences, including isotropic high-resolution 3D short-tau inversion recovery.
• Incorporates diffusion tensor imaging for microstructural abnormality assessment.
• Covers imaging from the skull base to the knee for comprehensive PNS evaluation.

Main Results:

• WBMRN provides high-resolution visualization of nerve anatomy and pathology.
• Offers insights into both structural and microstructural abnormalities of the peripheral nerves.
• Demonstrates utility in diagnosing conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and neurofibromatosis.

Conclusions:

• WBMRN is an effective radiation-free tool for comprehensive peripheral nervous system assessment.
• It aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of diverse neuropathic conditions.
• WBMRN represents a significant advancement in the radiological evaluation of polyneuropathies.