Value of diffusion-tensor imaging and fiber tractography in the diagnosis and follow-up of Marchiafava–Bignami disease

Abstract

Marchiafava–Bignami disease is a rare alcohol-related disorder that results in progressive demyelination and necrosis of the corpus callosum. The diagnosis is based on clinical profiles and neuroimaging features. We report two cases of Marchiafava–Bignami disease studied with MRI, including diffusion-tensor imaging and fiber tractography. We observed decreased fractional anisotropy values in the corpus callosum and clear white matter fiber derangement in the chronic stage. However, extensive corpus callosum involvement in FLAIR sequences, low ADC values and normal FA at presentation are not good predictors of poor outcome.