Comprehensive Morphometric MRI Assessment in Children with Breath-Holding Spells: Integration of Automated
1Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Health Practice and Research Hospital, Balikesir University, 10145 Balıkesir, Turkey.
Tomography (Ann Arbor, Mich.)
|February 26, 2026
Summary
Children with breath-holding spells (BHSs) show distinct brain morphometric differences, particularly in regions regulating emotion and autonomic functions. These findings offer insights into the neurobiology of BHSs.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Pediatric Neurology
- Brain Anatomy
Background:
- Breath-holding spells (BHSs) are common in children, with potential neurobiological underpinnings.
- Previous research has not fully elucidated the specific brain structural alterations associated with BHSs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate regional brain anatomical differences in children with BHSs compared to controls.
- To analyze brain volume, surface area, and cortical thickness using advanced MRI techniques.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 3D T1-weighted MRI scans from 48 children with BHSs and 50 controls.
- Morphometric analysis of 135 brain regions, assessing volume, surface area, and cortical thickness relative to intracranial volume.
- Statistical comparison using ANCOVA with FDR correction for multiple comparisons.
Main Results:
- Reduced bilateral amygdala volume in the BHS group.
- Decreased cortical thickness and volume in the right anterior insula.
- Significant reductions in cortical thickness in bilateral anterior cingulate cortices and right medial frontal cortex.
- Cerebellar volume reductions observed in specific lobules and the vermis.
Conclusions:
- Children with BHSs exhibit measurable morphometric changes in brain regions crucial for autonomic and emotional regulation.
- These findings contribute to understanding the neurobiological characteristics associated with BHSs.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
01:30Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Description
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
01:21Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, or CMRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that employs a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create precise images of the heart and arteries. It provides comprehensive information about cardiac anatomy, function, perfusion, and tissue characterization without ionizing radiation.IndicationsCMRI diagnoses various heart conditions, including tissue damage from heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis, aortic issues (tears, aneurysms,...
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...