Multiple sclerosis in the spinal cord: MR appearance and correlation with clinical parameters

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Updated: Oct 21, 2026

Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronic Spinal Cord Compression
07:00

Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronic Spinal Cord Compression

Published on: May 7, 2019

L M Tartaglino1, D P Friedman, A E Flanders

  • 1Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.

Radiology
|June 1, 1995
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging reveals characteristic spinal cord lesions in multiple sclerosis (MS). These MS plaques are typically peripheral, short, and occupy less than half the cord's cross-sectional area.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Neuroimaging

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system.
  • Spinal cord involvement is common in MS and can lead to significant disability.
  • Understanding the characteristic imaging features of spinal cord MS is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Observation:

  • This study analyzed MR imaging features of spinal cord lesions in 68 patients with MS.
  • Lesions were evaluated for length, cross-sectional area, location, signal intensity, and morphology.
  • Clinical parameters including MS type, disease duration, sex, and age were correlated with imaging findings.

Findings:

  • A total of 124 demyelinating plaques were identified.
  • The majority of plaques were peripherally located, measured two body segments or less in length, and occupied less than 50% of the spinal cord's cross-sectional area.
  • Spinal cord atrophy was associated with progressive MS, while cord swelling was observed exclusively in relapsing-remitting MS.

Implications:

  • Characteristic MR imaging features of spinal cord MS plaques can aid in diagnosis.
  • The location and size of plaques may correlate with disease progression and specific MS subtypes.
  • Further research can refine the use of neuroimaging in monitoring MS progression and treatment response.

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