Neuroscience 2002 Abstract
| Presentation Number: | 519.4 |
|---|---|
| Abstract Title: | Mapping the neuronal pathways involved by discrete white matter lesions using MRI diffusion tensor tracking. |
| Authors: |
Conturo, T. E.*1
; Lori, N. F.1
; Akbudak, E.1
; Shimony, J. S.1
; Falini, A.2
; Snyder, A. Z.1
; Rocca, M.2
; Burton, H.1
; Bizzi, A.3
1Radiology, Washington Univ. School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 2Radiology, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy 3Radiiology, National Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy |
| Primary Theme and Topics |
Techniques in Neuroscience - Staining, tracing and imaging techniques |
| Secondary Theme and Topics | Neurological and Psychiatric Conditions<br />- Neuro-Oncology |
| Session: |
519. Staining, tracing, and imaging techniques VI Slide |
| Presentation Time: | Tuesday, November 5, 2002 1:45 PM-2:00 PM |
| Location: | Room 307A |
| Keywords: | MRI, pathways, diffusion, lesions |
Diffusion tensor tracking (DTT) using MRI provides a means of visualizing neuronal fiber pathways not typically seen on conventional MRI or other modalities. Thus, DTT may provide a unique means of identifying the specific pathways involved by focal lesions within homogeneous-appearing white matter (WM).
We used DTT in normal subjects to locate different visual pathways within occipital WM. Using DTT as a guide, subtle contrast differences within WM were identified on T2 weighted imaging (T2WI) that corresponded to the geniculocalcarine tract. We then used DTT to analyze the location of focal WM lesions near the cingulum. In one patient the cingulum was traced by DTT and coursed immediately medial to the lesion, ruling out cingulum involvement. DTT retrospectively identified subtle T2 contrast in homogeneous-appearing WM that had the morphology of the cingulum. In a second patient, a focal lesion near the cingulum mirrored the shape of the contralateral cingulum based on T2WI contrast, and the lesion obscured the T2WI contrast on the ipsilateral side, indicating cingulum involvement.
DTT provides a tool for mapping pathways within homogeneous-appearing WM and assigning subtle T2WI contrast to specific pathways. Both approaches may be useful in identifying the pathways involved or spared by focal WM lesions. This information could be valuable for predicting the functional effects of small WM lesions (e.g., MS, tumors, trauma), and to monitor and guide therapy and functional recovery.
We used DTT in normal subjects to locate different visual pathways within occipital WM. Using DTT as a guide, subtle contrast differences within WM were identified on T2 weighted imaging (T2WI) that corresponded to the geniculocalcarine tract. We then used DTT to analyze the location of focal WM lesions near the cingulum. In one patient the cingulum was traced by DTT and coursed immediately medial to the lesion, ruling out cingulum involvement. DTT retrospectively identified subtle T2 contrast in homogeneous-appearing WM that had the morphology of the cingulum. In a second patient, a focal lesion near the cingulum mirrored the shape of the contralateral cingulum based on T2WI contrast, and the lesion obscured the T2WI contrast on the ipsilateral side, indicating cingulum involvement.
DTT provides a tool for mapping pathways within homogeneous-appearing WM and assigning subtle T2WI contrast to specific pathways. Both approaches may be useful in identifying the pathways involved or spared by focal WM lesions. This information could be valuable for predicting the functional effects of small WM lesions (e.g., MS, tumors, trauma), and to monitor and guide therapy and functional recovery.
Supported by NIH NS39538 and NS06833.
Sample Citation:
[Authors]. [Abstract Title]. Program No. XXX.XX. 2002 Neuroscience Meeting Planner. Orlando, FL: Society for Neuroscience, 2002. Online.
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