Abstract
Background: multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). Its diagnosis is characterized by foci of demyelination, disseminated over time and anatomical space, both clinically and radiologically. Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis of MS have been established to identify the proper sequences and imaging technique. Objective: this study aims to investigate the adherence of Taif hospitals to these consensus guidelines. Method: data were collected from the radiology departments of 3 main hospitals in Taif (King Abdul-Aziz Specialist Hospital, King Faisal Medical Complex, and Al-Hada Hospital for Armed Forces). The standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol for MS in each hospital was reviewed using the picture archiving and communication system (PACS). The comparisons were based on the strength of the magnetic field, slice thickness, slice orientation, coverage, and the MR core sequences used. Results: each Taif hospital has its own protocol, which differ from consensus guidelines. The main difference is the hospitals’ lack of 3D sequences. Another difference is the lack of inversion recovery prepared T1 sequences. Finally, for follow-up patients, no contrast administration exists in Taif hospitals. Conclusion: this study shows some major differences in the MS protocols among Taif hospitals. This is probably due to poor awareness of the guidelines in the radiology community. Neuroradiologists at Taif hospitals should ensure the recommended protocol is followed.
Highlights
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS)
Because the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) is based on clinical symptoms and radiological findings, a suitable magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol recommended by experts in the field should be followed
This study shows some major differences in the MS protocols among Taif hospitals
Summary
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It is characterized by foci of demyelination, disseminated over time and anatomical space [1]. The estimated number of people with MS worldwide has increased from 2.1 million in 2008 to 2.3 million in 2013 [3]. Evidence shows that this increase is due to the heightened incidence of the disease among women, as the female to male ratio is approximately 2:1 [4]. In Saudi Arabia, it has been estimated that there are approximately 30 MS cases per 100,000 people, most available studies are hospital-based and lack regional and national investigations of MS prevalence [5]
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