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The evolution of multiple sclerosis lesions on serial MR
1Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Serial MRI reveals distinct signal intensity changes in multiple sclerosis lesions over time. These patterns on enhanced and unenhanced scans offer insights into lesion evolution and potential histopathology.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Understanding the temporal dynamics of MS lesions is crucial for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize temporal changes in signal intensity patterns of multiple sclerosis lesions using serial magnetic resonance (MR).
- To explore the potential of non-enhanced and contrast-enhanced MR imaging in inferring lesion histopathology.
Main Methods:
- Serial T1-, T2-, proton density-, and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MR imaging was performed.
- Five patients with relapsing-remitting MS underwent at least 22 scans over one year.
- Lesions were tracked for periods ranging from 4 weeks to 1 year.
Main Results:
- New lesions often showed central hyperintensity at initial detection.
- Ring hyperintensity on contrast-enhanced images was predominant after 29 days.
- Gadopentetate dimeglumine enhancement lasted an average of 1-2 months, with residual non-enhancing rims observed in older lesions.
Conclusions:
- A lesion evolution pattern relevant to MR imaging was inferred.
- Serial MR imaging, both enhanced and unenhanced, can provide information about lesion histopathologic evolution.
- Quantitative pattern analysis of routine MR images may aid in assessing therapies targeting specific lesion phases.