Fetal MRI vs. fetal ultrasound in the diagnosis of pathologies of the central nervous system

Abstract

Abstract Background Malformations of the central nervous system (CNS) constitute the 2nd most common group of fetal pathologies, which can be reflected throughout the patient's life. Fetal ultrasound (US), together with fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are extremely important techniques for the diagnosis of CNS malformations. The objective of this work was to address fetal US and fetal MRI, as well as the benefits of its use in different CNS pathologies and to ascertain which of the techniques presents better results. Methods For this systematic literature review, a search was conducted using databases such as PubMed® and ScienceDirect®, Google Scholar, b-on digital library, in a 10-year period, 2010 to 2020. 60 references were used, which met the inclusion criteria, namely compliance with the defined timeframe and the theme of the work to be addressed. Results As for the results, fetal US is the first-line technique for fetal evaluation, and its objective is to detect possible fetal malformations early, while fetal MRI complements the information collected through fetal US. When there are cases of isolated ventriculomegaly and complete agenesis of the corpus callosum, fetal US can correctly assess the pathology. When it comes to pathologies such as dysgenesis of the corpus callosum and malformations of the posterior fossa, fetal MRI evaluates more effectively in comparison to fetal US. Conclusions In conclusions, to reduce the number of false positives, the techniques should be used together, thus providing a better diagnosis.