Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026
Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates
Published on: December 31, 2015
Comparative Diagnostic Performance of Early and Term Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Preterm Infants: A Diagnostic Test
Linda Bonezzi1,2, Lucia Rocchitelli3,4, Tommaso Biagioni5,6,7
1Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Centre, Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, l.bonezzi@uq.edu.au.
Introduction:
Early identification of neurodisability and delay after preterm birth is critical for timely intervention. Term-equivalent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (36-44 weeks) is widely used for prognostication, and earlier MRI (<36 weeks) may offer additional value.
Methods:
To provide a comparative diagnostic test accuracy synthesis of early versus term-equivalent MRI for motor and non-motor neurodevelopmental outcomes, incorporating advanced imaging modalities including volumetric and diffusion measures, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched to January 22, 2026. PRISMA-DTA guidelines were followed with PROSPERO registration (CRD42024528207). Studies enrolling preterm infants (<37 weeks) undergoing both early and term-equivalent MRI with neurodevelopment assessment between 12 and 36 months were included. Two reviewers extracted data and assessed bias risk. Meta-analysis used a Bayesian bivariate random-effects model pooling diagnostic metrics for the presence of lesion, intraventricular haemorrhage, white matter injury, and cerebellar haemorrhage.
Results:
Of 3,249 records screened, 30 studies met inclusion. Term-equivalent MRI lesion presence (diagnostic odds ratio [DOR] = 14.17 vs. 2.67; sensitivity 84% vs. 76%; specificity 73% vs. 45%) and white matter injury (DOR = 5.92 vs. 2.20; sensitivity 65% vs. 52% and specificity 76% vs. 67%) demonstrated superior predictivity than early MRI. White matter injury at term best predicted motor outcomes (DOR = 18.43). Volumetric and diffusion measures improved predictive accuracy, especially for cognitive outcomes. Heterogeneity in MRI protocols, biomarker definitions, and outcomes limited comparability, and the modest study number reduced precision.
Conclusion:
Term-equivalent MRI offers higher predictivity than early MRI. Standardised scoring and multimodal integration are needed to optimise early risk stratification in preterm populations.
