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Atypical demyelinating lesions in patients with multiple sclerosis
1Department of Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA.
Abstract:
We describe an atypical MRI appearance of multiple sclerosis (MS). Lesions characterized on T2-weighted images by a well-defined rim of increased signal intensity and a concentric region of higher signal intensity were seen in 6 of 132 patients with MS. On T1-weighted images these lesions were evident as regions of low signal intensity, often with a rim of contrast enhancement or increased signal intensity. These appearances tended to be shown by new, evolving lesions.
Insights
We identified a rare, distinctive MRI finding in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. This "concentric ring" sign on T2 and T1 imaging may indicate new, active MS lesions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
- Characteristic MRI findings are crucial for MS diagnosis and monitoring disease activity.
- Atypical lesion appearances can pose diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- An atypical MRI pattern was observed in 6 out of 132 multiple sclerosis patients.
- These lesions featured a distinct rim of increased signal intensity on T2-weighted images.
- A concentric region of higher signal intensity was also noted within these lesions.
Findings:
- On T1-weighted MRI, these atypical lesions presented as areas of low signal intensity.
- Often, a rim of contrast enhancement or increased signal intensity was visible on T1-weighted images.
- These specific MRI appearances were predominantly associated with new, actively evolving MS lesions.
Implications:
- This atypical MRI finding may represent a specific pattern of active demyelination or inflammation in MS.
- Recognition of this pattern could aid in the early diagnosis and characterization of MS activity.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathological basis and clinical significance of these concentric MRI lesions in multiple sclerosis.