Clinical applications of ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging in multiple sclerosis

Matilde Inglese, Lazar Fleysher, Niels Oesingmann, Maria Petracca

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is of paramount importance for the early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and MRI findings are part of the MS diagnostic criteria. There is a growing interest in the use of ultra-high-field strength −7 Tesla- (7T) MRI to investigate, in vivo, the pathological substrate of the disease. Areas covered: An overview of 7T MRI applications in MS focusing on increased sensitivity for lesion detection, specificity of the central vein sign and better understanding of MS pathophysiology. Implications for disease diagnosis, monitoring and treatment planning are discussed. Expert commentary: 7T MRI provides increased signal-to-noise and contrast-to-noise-ratio that allow higher spatial resolution and better detection of anatomical and pathological features. The high spatial resolution reachable at 7T has been a game changer for neuroimaging applications not only in MS but also in epilepsy, brain tumors, dementia, and neuro-psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, the first 7T device has recently been cleared for clinical use by the food and drug administration.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)221-230
Number of pages10
JournalExpert Review of Neurotherapeutics
Volume18
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 4 Mar 2018

Keywords

  • FDA clearance
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • central vein sign
  • gray matter lesions
  • iron imaging
  • sodium imaging
  • ultra-high field MRI
  • white matter lesions

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Clinical applications of ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging in multiple sclerosis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this