Journal of neuroimaging : official journal of the American Society of Neuroimaging
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We attempted to measure DTI parameters of the brainstem pyramidal tract using two approaches, ie, simple ROI and tract-specific analyses. Results obtained for healthy subjects and ALS patients were compared. ⋯ These results suggest, compared with simple ROI analysis, that tract-specific analysis using DTI fiber-tracking is more reliable and sensitive for detecting upper motor neuron pathology in ALS.
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Sensory neuronopathies (SN) represent a specific subgroup of peripheral nervous system diseases, characterized by degeneration of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and its projections. We tried to estimate the frequency and extent of spinal cord MRI abnormalities in a group of patients with SN and correlate these with clinical and neurophysiological features. ⋯ These findings support volumetric spinal cord MRI as a useful tool in the assessment of chronic SN.
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Several methods are being used to assess cerebral vasomotor reactivity (CVR), including transcranial Doppler (TCD) sonography and blood oxygenation level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The aim was to assess the correlation of TCD and fMRI in the CVR assessment. ⋯ In the evaluation of CVR, there is only a minimal correlation between the particular TCD tests (both BH/HV and BHI), and fMRI examination. However, there is a moderate correlation between TCD and fMRI in the case of congruity of both TCD tests.
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Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in older individuals. Controversy remains in terms of the optimal timing and indications for surgical intervention. In this context, it would be of benefit to define clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) predictors of outcome after intervention for CSM. ⋯ Patients with high intramedullary signal change on T2WI who do not have clonus or spasticity may experience a good surgical outcome and may have reversal of the MRI abnormality. A less favorable surgical outcome is predicted by the presence of low intramedullary signal on T1WI, clonus, or spasticity. These data suggest that there may be a window of opportunity to obtain optimal surgical outcomes in patients with CSM.
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Subdural empyema represents a loculated infection between the dura and the arachnoid. It has been described either intracranially or in the spinal canal, the latter localization being quite rare. While treatment guidelines for a single (either brain or spinal) localization of a subdural empyema are more or less established, its management when a massive involvement of CNS is evident represents a challenge. ⋯ Spinal subdural empyema and brain subdural empyema are not always, as in our case, two different entities. Prompt diagnosis and treatment constitute the major variables affecting outcome.