[NMR spectroscopy and brain diseases. Clinical applications]

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a noninvasive means of obtaining metabolic information complementary to magnetic resonance imaging. Its potential is particularly interesting in tissue characterization and follow-up of brain lesions. We present here a review of clinical applications together with a short development of the fundamental principles. From a review of the literature, and our own experience, we discuss the role of MRS in clinical neuroimaging. Despite the small number of clinical applications validated to date, MRS is today a highly useful research tool.