Study of changes in perfusion in the foci of demyelination in multiple sclerosis by perfusion MRI

Introduction. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system with disseminated foci of demyelination and progressive neurodegeneration; it is the most common demyelinating disease and the leading cause of disability of neurological patients of a young age, characterized by a wave-like course with alternating periods of remission and relapse. Currently, there is a discussion about the participation of vascular changes in the formation of neurological disorders and about the possibility of correction of therapeutic approaches in connection with the revealed microcirculatory disorders. Perfusion MRI allows you to evaluate hemodynamics at the capillary level in vivo. Purpose. To evaluate perfusion changes in foci of demyelination in multiple sclerosis using the method of dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC). Materials and methods. The MR study was carried out on a super-high-angle MR-scanner «Ingenia» («Philips») 3 Tesla. The study included 30 healthy volunteers and 80 patients with demyelinating disease from 18 to 48 years old (average age was 34,6±8,02 years).

Quantitative and qualitative assessment of perfusion indices in foci of demyelination was carried out. Results. In the active foci of demyelination, an increase in the speed and volume of cerebral blood flow is noted, the most pronounced changes in patients with clinically isolated syndrome. Inactive foci, marked hypoperfusion is noted. Discussion. Evaluation of cerebral perfusion allows a new look at the role of the vascular component in the formation of focal inflammatory changes in the brain in multiple sclerosis, which can determine a new direction of pathogenetic treatment. Conclusion. Perfusion data complements routine MRI and provides a comprehensive assessment of the neurovascular system.

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