Role Of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research Articles

Identification of Terminal Syrinx in a 5-day-old Infant: The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosing Back Swellings – A Clinical Review

Abstract A 5-day-old male neonate presented with a palpable lumbar region swelling, leading to the suspicion of a neural tube defect (NTD) or other spinal abnormalities. The infant was born through cesarean section and appeared well-nourished, alert, and interactive with no neurological deficits or signs of infection. Brain screening using ultrasound and head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ruled out hydrocephalus and Arnold–Chiari malformation. Spinal imaging using MRI revealed a terminal syrinx in the conus medullaris, which was not apparent on clinical examination. Considering the potential complications and future neurological deterioration, a syringostomy was performed. Neonatal back swellings can be challenging diagnoses due to their broad spectrum of pathologies, including NTDs and terminal syringes. Terminal syringes involve the conus medullaris and cauda equina and may present as a palpable back swelling. These infants are typically asymptomatic at birth but can develop neurological deficits over time. MRI is the gold standard for evaluating suspected NTDs or terminal syringes due to its high resolution, multiplanar imaging capabilities, and lack of ionizing radiation. Ultrasound and computed tomography scans have limitations in diagnosing terminal syringes accurately. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent potential complications and improve outcomes for these patients. The management strategy depends on how severe the underlying condition is. For infants without symptoms, close monitoring is recommended. If the baby shows symptoms or is at high risk, surgery can be considered. Syringostomy involves placing a shunt to drain cerebrospinal fluid from the syrinx into the abdominal cavity, reducing pressure and potentially improving neurological function. In conclusion, neonatal back swellings, particularly those caused by terminal syringes, require a thorough diagnostic evaluation and close follow-up. MRI is an essential diagnostic tool due to its high resolution and ability to delineate intracranial and spinal structures effectively. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes for these patients and prevent complications. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for terminal syringes in neonates with back swellings and pursue appropriate diagnostic tests, such as MRI, to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely management.

Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosis of Stress Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Female Patient

Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosis of Stress Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Female Patient

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Role in Metastatic Liver Disease

The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of the utilization of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the identification, characterization, and monitoring of liver metastatic disease, in contrast to alternative imaging modalities, through a bibliographical review and illustrative examples from the author’s clinical practice.The advantages of MRI in this specific context will be explored, emphasizing the utility of hepatospecific contrast agents and the limitations associated with alternative imaging modalities.A comparative analysis of these methods shows that MRI is the most sensitive and specific modality, even more so when using hepatospecific contrast agents, proving to have cost-effectiveness benefits in patient management.It is the authors’ opinion that, provided the technique is available, oncological patient staging where hepatic metastatic disease is a concern should include an abdominal MRI, if possible, with hepatospecific contrast.

Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in evaluating T2-weighted hyperintensities in spinal cord in a tertiary care hospital in central India

Background Hyperintensities on T2-weighted images in the spinal cord are a complex and diagnostically challenging entity that can present with diverse clinical features. This study protocol outlines a comprehensive investigation to understand the causes, clinical and imaging characteristics, and correlation with pathological findings of hyperintensities on T2-weighted images in the spinal cord. By establishing a systematic assessment approach, this study seeks to provide valuable insights into these abnormalities’ diagnostic and prognostic implications. Methods The study will be conducted as a prospective observational design. Patients with clinically diagnosed or suspected spinal cord lesion presenting with intramedullary T2-weighted hyperintensity and referred for MRI evaluation will be included. Data collection will encompass patient demographics, clinical features, and extensive imaging parameters. Pathological data, when available, will be correlated with imaging findings. Various statistical methods will be employed to analyse the data, including frequency analysis, comparative tests, logistic regression, and survival analysis. Expected Results The study anticipates elucidating the spectrum of etiologies underlying hyperintensities on T2-weighted images in the spinal cord and their clinical and imaging profiles. The systematic approach will offer a structured diagnostic method, while correlations with pathological data will provide an enhanced understanding of these conditions. The results are expected to provide clinicians with valuable insights into diagnosing, treating, and prognosticating patients with spinal cord hyperintensities on T2-weighted images.

Patterns of practice of image guided particle therapy for cranio-spinal irradiation: A site specific multi-institutional survey of European Particle Therapy Network

PurposeTo investigate the current practice patterns in image-guided particle therapy (IGPT) for cranio-spinal irradiation (CSI). MethodsA multi-institutional survey was distributed to European particle therapy centres to analyse all aspects of IGPT. Based on the survey results, a Delphi consensus analysis was developed to define minimum requirements and optimal workflow for clinical practice. The centres participating in the institutional survey were invited to join the Delphi process. ResultsEleven centres participated in the survey. Imaging for treatment planning was rather similar among the centres with Computed Tomography (CT) being the main modality. For positioning verification, 2D IGPT was more commonly used than 3D IGPT. Two centres performed routinely imaging for plan adaptation, by the rest ad hoc. Eight centres participated in the Delphi consensus analysis. The full consensus was reached on the use of CT imaging without contrast for treatment planning and the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in target and organs-at-risk delineation. There was an agreement on the necessity to perform patient position verification and correction before each isocentre. The most important outcome was the clear need for standardization and harmonization of the workflow. ConclusionThere were differences in CSI IGPT clinical practice among the European particle therapy centres. Moreover, the optimal workflow as identified by experts was not yet reached. There is a strong need for consensus guidelines. The state-of-the-art imaging technology and protocols need to be implemented into clinical practice to improve the quality of IGPT for CSI.

The role of magnetic resonance imaging in cardio-oncology

In recent decades, groundbreaking methods of diagnosis and treatment were developed leading to significantly increased life span of patients with malignant neoplasms. Among patients treated for cancer, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death not associated with cancer. Early identification of cardiotoxicity is very important as it allows to apply early prevention measures and modify antitumor treatment schemes. Prevention and treatment of cardiotoxicity are possible only with a functioning multidisciplinary team including oncologists and cardiologists. Magnetic resonance imaging of the heart plays a significant role in monitoring the condition of cardiovascular system during antitumor treatment. This technique allows to obtain accurate characteristics of the tissues and evaluate myocardial perfusion without radiation exposure.

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in staging of rectal cancer and application AJCC 8th staging

Purpose: To evaluate the role of MRI in staging of rectal cancer according to AJCC 8th staging. Material and Methods: A cross sectional study with 31 histiologically proven rectal cancer patients treated at Hue Central Hospital from 01/2022 to 05/2023. Results: The accuracy of MRI in diagnosing stage T rectal cancer according to the AJCC 8th staging is 93.5% with Kappa coefficient = 0.866. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of each stage were T1-T2: 75%, 100%, 75%; T3: 100%, 81,8%, 90,9%; T4: 100%, 100%, 100%. About 12.9% of patients invaded the mesorectal fascia (MRF +) on MRI. There was only 1 case of EMVI+. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MRI in dectecting lymph node metastasis was 80%, 66,7%,71%. Conclusion: MRI appears to be a highly accurate modality so when application AJCC 8th staging be can preoperative staging and decision-making treatment of rectal cancer Key words: magnetic resonance imaging, AJCC 8th staging, rectal cancer.

A prospective observational role of magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy in evaluation of choline levels in gall bladder carcinoma in tertiary care hospital in central India

Background Gall bladder carcinoma (GBC) is a challenging malignancy characterized by late-stage diagnosis and poor prognosis. Early detection and accurate staging are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) offer non-invasive imaging modalities that may aid in the evaluation of GBC. Choline, a metabolite detected by MRS, has been implicated in tumor growth and may serve as a potential biomarker for GBC. This study aims to investigate the role of MRI and MRS in evaluating choline levels as biomarkers for GBC. Method A prospective observational study will be conducted involving patients with suspected or confirmed GBC referred to the Department of Radiology, AVBRH, Sawangi. Patients meeting inclusion criteria will undergo MRI scans and MRS examinations to assess tumor characteristics and choline levels. Data collected will include MRI images, MRS spectra, histopathological results, and clinical outcomes. Statistical analysis will be performed to examine correlations between MRI findings, choline levels, and histopathological characteristics. Expected Outcome It is anticipated that MRI and MRS will demonstrate utility in evaluating choline levels as imaging biomarkers for GBC. Correlations between choline levels, tumor characteristics, and clinical outcomes are expected to provide valuable insights into the role of choline in GBC pathogenesis and prognosis. If successful, MRI and MRS could serve as non-invasive tools for early detection, staging, and treatment response monitoring in GBC, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and management strategies.

Unveiling the Integral Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis of Spinal Dysraphism.

Background Spinal dysraphism, characterized by incomplete closure of neural and bone spinal structures, manifests as congenital fusion abnormalities along the dorsal midline, involving the skin, subcutaneous tissue, meninges, vertebrae, and neural tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the preferred imaging modality for assessing spinal dysraphism across all age groups, provides direct visualization of the spinal cord without the need for contrast or ionizing radiation while also eliminating bone artifacts and allowing multiplanar imaging. The objective of this study was to evaluate the range of spinal dysraphism lesions and assess the significance of MRI in their evaluation. Methodology Thirty patients with suspected spinal dysraphism underwent evaluation at the Medical College Hospital and Study Centre in Vijayapur, India. This cross-sectional observational study included patients diagnosed or provisionally diagnosed with spinal dysraphism based on clinical and imaging profiles. Cases were identified through preliminary findings on radiographs. Results The study encompassed individuals aged one month to 20 years, with the largest proportion of patients (36.67%) falling within the 1-5-year age group. Spina bifida was the most prevalent spinal abnormality, accounting for 70% of cases. In 12 patients (40%), the most prevalent location of involvement was the lumbosacral spine. Conclusion MRI provides excellent tissue differentiation, particularly of lipomatous tissue, with reproducible and comprehensive section planes and relative operator independence. Moreover, MRI is beneficial for children with suspected spinal dysraphism as it can be performed without ionizing radiation, biological risks, or the need for intrathecal contrast media.

Medullary Compression Syndrome Revealing Vertebral Medullary Hydatidosis: A Case Report

Spinal cord compression syndrome caused by vertebral medullary hydatidosis is a rare but serious condition requiring precise diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This article examines the crucial role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) in characterizing lesions, assessing their extent, and monitoring postoperative outcomes in patients with this pathology. With a focus on vertebral medullary surgery, the authors explore the challenges associated with this condition, including the complexity of surgical management and the high risk of recurrence. A better understanding of this pathology and the adoption of early preventive strategies are essential to improve clinical outcomes in patients with this syndrome.

A comprehensive review on role of magnetic resonance imaging in the precise measurement of corpus callosum

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has emerged as a powerful and non-invasive imaging technique, playing a pivotal role in neuroimaging research and clinical diagnosis. This comprehensive review explores the significance of MRI in the precise measurement of the corpus callosum, a key structure connecting the two hemispheres of the brain. The corpus callosum plays a crucial role in inter hemispheric communication and is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. The review begins by elucidating the anatomy and functions of the corpus callosum, emphasizing its importance in facilitating seamless communication between the cerebral hemispheres. Subsequently, the paper delves into the historical evolution of MRI techniques and how advancements have enhanced the visualization and measurement capabilities of the corpus callosum. A detailed examination of various MRI modalities, including structural MRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional MRI, is presented in the context of corpus callosum analysis. Structural MRI provides high-resolution images for accurate morphological assessments, while DTI offers insights into white matter microstructure and fiber tractography, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the corpus callosum's integrity. The review also highlights the role of MRI in investigating alterations in the corpus callosum associated with neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Additionally, the paper explores how functional MRI contributes to understanding the functional connectivity and inter hemispheric interactions mediated by the corpus callosum. Challenges and limitations in the measurement of the corpus callosum using MRI are discussed, including methodological considerations, image artifacts, and potential sources of variability. The review concludes by outlining future directions in corpus callosum imaging research, including the integration of advanced imaging techniques, artificial intelligence, and large-scale multi-center studies to enhance the precision and reliability of measurements.In summary, this comprehensive review underscores the pivotal role of MRI in advancing our understanding of the corpus callosum, providing valuable insights into both normal brain function and pathological conditions. The continual evolution of MRI techniques holds promise for further refining the assessment of the corpus callosum, ultimately contributing to improved diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic interventions in neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Prostate cancer screening-current overview

The harm-to-benefit ratio of prostate cancer (PCa) screening remains controversial mainly due to the unfavorable test characteristics of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as ascreening test. In this nonsystematic review, we present acurrent overview of the body of evidence on prostate cancer screening with afocus on the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the prostate. Evidence generated in large randomized controlled trials showed that PSA-based screening significantly decreases cancer-specific mortality. The main obstacle in developing and implementing PCa screening strategies is the resulting overdiagnosis and as aconsequence overtreatment of indolent cancers. Opportunistic screening is characterized by an adverse benefit-to-harm ratio and should, therefore, not be recommended. The German Statutory Early Detection Program for prostate cancer, which consists of adigital rectal examination (DRE) as astand-alone screening test, is not evidence-based, neither specific nor sensitive enough and results in unnecessary diagnostics. The European Commission recently urged member states to develop population-based and organized risk-adapted PSA-based screening programs, which are currently tested in the ongoing German PROBASE trial. Finetuning of the diagnostic pathway following PSA-testing seems key to improve its positive and negative predictive value and thereby making PCa screening more accurate. Incorporation of prostatic MRI into screening strategies leads to more accurate diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer, while diagnosis of indolent cancers is reduced. In the future, molecular liquid-based biomarkers have the potential to complement or even replace PSA in PCa screening and further personalize screening strategies. Active surveillance as an alternative to immediate radical therapy of demographically increasing PCa diagnoses can potentially further improve the benefit-to-harm ratio of organized screening. Early detection of PCa should be organized on apopulation level into personalized and evidence-based screening strategies. Multiparametric MRI of the prostate may play akey role in this setting.

Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Trigeminal Neuralgia Using Steady-State Imaging.

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) poses diagnostic challenges due to its complex origins, often associated with neurovascular compression. Advanced imaging techniques, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with thefast imaging employing steady-state acquisition (FIESTA) sequence, offer crucial insights into TN pathophysiology. This prospective cross-sectional observational study aimed to elucidate MRI's utility in diagnosing TN and correlating imaging findings with clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes. A cohort of 41 patients clinically suspected of TN underwent MRI evaluation at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, utilizing various sequences including FIESTA. Analysis revealed a higher incidence among females, predominant unilateral presentation, and a higher prevalence of abnormal MRI findings, with neurovascular compression as the leading etiology. Correlation analysis demonstrated significant associations between facial pain localized to the trigeminal nerve distribution, triggering factors, and abnormal MRI findings. Gender distribution did not significantly influence MRI findings. Treatment outcomes favored microvascular surgery over conservative management in cases of neurovascular compression. This study underscores MRI's pivotal role, particularly FIESTA, in TN evaluation, guiding personalized treatment strategies and emphasizing the importance of integrated clinical and imaging approaches. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore additional imaging modalities for a deeper understanding of TN pathogenesis.

Neuro-imaging in intracerebral hemorrhage: updates and knowledge gaps.

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is characterized by hematoma development within the brain's parenchyma, contributing significantly to the burden of stroke. While non-contrast head computed tomography (CT) remains the gold standard for initial diagnosis, this review underscores the pivotal role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in ICH management. Beyond diagnosis, MRI offers invaluable insights into ICH etiology, prognosis, and treatment. Utilizing echo-planar gradient-echo or susceptibility-weighted sequences, MRI demonstrates exceptional sensitivity and specificity in identifying ICH, aiding in differentiation of primary and secondary causes. Moreover, MRI facilitates assessment of hemorrhage age, recognition of secondary lesions, and evaluation of perihematomal edema progression, thus guiding tailored therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review discusses the multifaceted utility of MRI in ICH management, highlighting its indispensable role in enhancing diagnostic accuracy as well as aiding in prognostication. As MRI continues to evolve as a cornerstone of ICH assessment, future research should explore its nuanced applications in personalized care paradigms.

Evaluating the impact of a moderately low-calorie ketogenic diet on mafld in patients with obesity: the role of magnetic resonance imaging

Evaluating the impact of a moderately low-calorie ketogenic diet on mafld in patients with obesity: the role of magnetic resonance imaging

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in the prediction of histological grade in soft tissue sarcomas.

Soft tissue sarcomas are rare malignant tumors with significant heterogeneity. The importance of classifying histological grades is fundamental to defining the treatment approach. To evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting the histological grade of soft tissue sarcomas. A retrospective observational study included patients over 18 years undergoing MRI and primary tumor surgery at AC Camargo Cancer Center from January 2015 to June 2022. Two radiologists evaluated MRI criteria (size, margin definition, heterogeneity of the T2 signal, high-intensity peritumoral signal on T2, and postperitumoral contrast), and a grading prediction score was calculated. χ2 and logistic regression analyses were conducted. Sixty-eight patients were included (38 men; median: 48 years). Moreover, 52 high-grade and 16 low-grade tumors were observed. The MRI criteria associated with histological grade were peritumoral high-intensity T2-weighted signals (p < 0.001) and peritumoral postcontrast enhancement (p = 0.006). Logistic regression confirmed their significance (odds ratio [OR]: 11.8 and 8.8, respectively). Each score point increment doubled the chance of high-grade tumors (OR: 2.0; p = 0.014). MRI effectively predicts histological grades of soft tissue sarcomas. Peritumoral high-intensity T2-weighted signals and peritumoral postcontrast enhancement are valuable indicators of high-grade tumors. This highlights MRI's importance in treatment decision-making for sarcoma patients.

The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cardiomyopathies in the Light of New Guidelines: A Focus on Tissue Mapping.

Cardiomyopathies (CMPs) are a group of myocardial disorders that are characterized by structural and functional abnormalities of the heart muscle. These abnormalities occur in the absence of coronary artery disease (CAD), hypertension, valvular disease, and congenital heart disease. CMPs are an increasingly important topic in the field of cardiovascular diseases due to the complexity of their diagnosis and management. In 2023, the ESC guidelines on cardiomyopathies were first published, marking significant progress in the field. The growth of techniques such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and genetics has been fueled by the development of multimodal imaging approaches. For the diagnosis of CMPs, a multimodal imaging approach, including CMR, is recommended. CMR has become the standard for non-invasive analysis of cardiac morphology and myocardial function. This document provides an overview of the role of CMR in CMPs, with a focus on tissue mapping. CMR enables the characterization of myocardial tissues and the assessment of cardiac functions. CMR sequences and techniques, such as late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and parametric mapping, provide detailed information on tissue composition, fibrosis, edema, and myocardial perfusion. These techniques offer valuable insights for early diagnosis, prognostic evaluation, and therapeutic guidance of CMPs. The use of quantitative CMR markers enables personalized treatment plans, improving overall patient outcomes. This review aims to serve as a guide for the use of these new tools in clinical practice.

Role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in liver iron quantification in thalassemic (thalassemia major) patients

BackgroundIron overload is a major problem in beta thalassemia patients due to repeated blood transfusions. The liver is the first organ to be loaded with iron. An accurate assessment of iron overload is necessary for managing iron chelation therapy in such patients. Iron quantification by MRI scores over liver biopsy due to its non-invasive nature.MethodsFifty-one patients with thalassemia major were subjected to 3.0-T MRI. Multiecho T2* sequence was used to cover the entire liver. Region of interest (ROI) was placed in three areas with maximum signal change, and an average T2* value was obtained. Similarly, a single ROI was placed at the mid-interventricular septum in the heart, and T2* value was obtained. T2* values so obtained were converted to iron concentration with the help of a T2* iron concentration calculator. The liver iron values were correlated with serum ferritin value.ResultsThere was a significant negative correlation between liver iron concentration (LIC) and T2* value of the liver (r = − 0.895, p < 0.01) and between cardiac iron concentration (CIC) and T2* value of the heart (r = − 0.959, p < 0.01). There was a slight positive correlation between LIC and serum ferritin (r = 0.642, p < 0.01) and no correlation between CIC and serum ferritin (r = − 0.137, p = 0.354).ConclusionsMRI is a useful tool to titrate the doses of chelating agents as it is accurate and non-invasive, does not involve radiation hazards and hence can be repeated as and when needed. Simultaneous assessment of cardiac iron overload is an added advantage of MRI.

The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Early Detection of Cancer: Present and Prospective Challenges for Future Research

The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Early Detection of Cancer: Present and Prospective Challenges for Future Research

Safe and Informed Use of Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agent in Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Where We Were and Where We Are.

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) have helped to improve the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. There are currently nine different commercially available gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) that can be used for body MRI cases, and which are classifiable according to their structures (cyclic or linear) or biodistribution (extracellular-space agents, target/specific-agents, and blood-pool agents). The aim of this review is to illustrate the commercially available MRI contrast agents, their effect on imaging, and adverse reaction on the body, with the goal to lead to their proper selection in different clinical contexts. When we have to choose between the different GBCAs, we have to consider several factors: (1) safety and clinical impact; (2) biodistribution and diagnostic application; (3) higher relaxivity and better lesion detection; (4) higher stability and lower tissue deposit; (5) gadolinium dose/concentration and lower volume injection; (6) pulse sequences and protocol optimization; (7) higher contrast-to-noise ratio at 3.0 T than at 1.5 T. Knowing the patient's clinical information, the relevant GBCAs properties and their effect on body MRI sequences are the key features to perform efficient and high-quality MRI examination.