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McCrady AN, Masterson CD, Barnes LE, Scharf RJ, Blemker SS. Development of an ultrasound-based metric of muscle functional capacity for use in patients with neuromuscular disease. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 39347560 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are progressive neuromuscular disorders characterized by severe muscle weakness and functional decline (Pillen et al., Muscle Nerve 2008; 37(6):679-693). With new therapeutics, objective methods with increased sensitivity are needed to assess muscle function. Ultrasound imaging is a promising approach for assessing muscle fat and fibrosis in neuromuscular disorders. This study builds on prior work by combining ultrasound-based measurements of muscle size, shape, and quality, relating these measures to muscle strength, and proposing a multivariable image-based estimate of muscle function. METHODS Maximum voluntary elbow flexion torque of 36 participants (SMA, DMD, and healthy controls) was measured by hand-held dynamometry and elbow flexor muscles were imaged using ultrasound. Muscle size (cross-sectional area, maximum Feret diameter or width, and thickness), quality (echogenicity, texture anisotropy index), and cross-sectional shape (diameter ratio) were measured. Multivariable regression was used to select ultrasound measurements that predict elbow flexion torque. RESULTS Significant differences were observed in muscle size (decreased), shape (thinned), and quality (decreased) with increased disease severity and compared to healthy participants. CSA (brachioradialis R2 = 0.51), maximum Feret diameter (biceps R2 = 0.49, brachioradialis R2 = 0.58) and echogenicity (brachioradialis R2 = 0.61) were most correlated with torque production. Multivariable regression models identified that muscle size (CSA, maximum Feret diameter) and quality (echogenicity) were both essential to predict elbow flexion torque (R2 = 0.65). DISCUSSION A multivariable approach combining muscle size and quality improves strength predictions over single variable approaches. These methods present a promising avenue for the development of sensitive and functionally relevant biomarkers of neuromuscular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison N McCrady
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Chelsea D Masterson
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology & Public Health, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Laura E Barnes
- Department of Systems and Information Engineering, University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Rebecca J Scharf
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology & Public Health, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Silvia S Blemker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Engineering & Applied Science, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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2
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Gera O, Shavit-Stein E, Amichai T, Chapman J, Chorin O, Greenbaum L, Dori A. Muscular dystrophy patients show low exercise-induced blood flow in muscles with normal strength. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024. [PMID: 39250335 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neuromuscular evaluation increasingly employs muscle ultrasonography to determine muscle thickness, mean grayscale echointensity, and visual semiquantitative echotexture attenuation. However, these measures provide low sensitivity for detection of mild muscle abnormality. Exercise-induced intramuscular blood flow is a physiologic phenomenon, which may be impaired in mildly affected muscles, particularly in dystrophinopathies, and may indicate functional muscle ischemia. We aimed to determine if muscle blood flow is reduced in patients with neuromuscular disorders and preserved muscle strength, and if it correlates with echointensity and digital echotexture measurements. METHODS Peak exercise-induced blood flow, echointensity, and echotexture were quantified in the elbow flexor muscles of 15 adult patients with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) and 13 patients with other muscular dystrophies (OMD). These were compared to 17 patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 1 (CMT1) neuropathy and 21 healthy adults from a previous study. RESULTS Muscle blood flow was reduced in all patient groups compared to controls, most prominently in BMD patients (p < 0.0001). Echointensity was similarly increased in all patient groups (p < 0.05), while echotexture was reduced only in muscular dystrophy patients (p ≤ 0.002). In BMD, blood flow correlated with echotexture (Pearson r = 0.6098, p = 0.0158) and strength (Spearman r = 0.5471; p = 0.0370). In patients with normal muscle strength, reduced muscle blood flow was evident in all patient groups (p < 0.001), echotexture was reduced in BMD and OMD (p < 0.01), and echointensity was increased in CMT (p < 0.05). INTERPRETATION Muscle blood flow is a sensitive measure to detect abnormality, even in muscles with normal strength. Increased echointensity may indicate a neurogenic disorder when strength is preserved, while low echotexture suggests a dystrophic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orna Gera
- Department of Neurology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Efrat Shavit-Stein
- Department of Neurology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Taly Amichai
- Department of Neurology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Joab Chapman
- Department of Neurology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Robert and Martha Harden Chair in Mental and Neurological Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Odelia Chorin
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- The Danek Gertner Institute of Human Genetics, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Lior Greenbaum
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- The Danek Gertner Institute of Human Genetics, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Amir Dori
- Department of Neurology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Kleiser B, Zimmer M, Ateş F, Marquetand J. Characterizing Mechanical Changes in the Biceps Brachii Muscle in Mild Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Using Shear Wave Elastography. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1985. [PMID: 39272769 PMCID: PMC11394530 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14171985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
There is no general consensus on evaluating disease progression in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). Recently, shear wave elastography (SWE) has been proposed as a noninvasive diagnostic tool to assess muscle stiffness in vivo. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize biceps brachii (BB) muscle mechanics in mild-FSHD patients using SWE. Eight patients with mild FSHD, the BB were assessed using SWE, surface electromyography (sEMG), elbow moment measurements during rest, maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), and isometric ramp contractions at 25%, 50%, and 75% MVC across five elbow positions (60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, and 180° flexion). The mean absolute percentage deviation (MAPD) was analyzed as a measure of force control during ramp contractions. The shear elastic modulus of the BB in FSHD patients increased from flexed to extended elbow positions (e.g., p < 0.001 at 25% MVC) and with increasing contraction intensity (e.g., p < 0.001 at 60°). MAPD was highly variable, indicating significant deviation from target values during ramp contractions. SWE in mild FSHD is influenced by contraction level and joint angle, similar to findings of previous studies in healthy subjects. Moreover, altered force control could relate to the subjective muscle weakness reported by patients with dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedict Kleiser
- Department of Epileptology, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Neural Dynamics and Magnetoencephalography, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 25, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- MEG-Center, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 47, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Manuela Zimmer
- Institute of Structural Mechanics and Dynamics in Aerospace Engineering, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 27, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Filiz Ateş
- Institute of Structural Mechanics and Dynamics in Aerospace Engineering, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 27, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Justus Marquetand
- Department of Epileptology, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Neural Dynamics and Magnetoencephalography, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 25, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- MEG-Center, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 47, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 5a, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
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4
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Noda Y, Sekiguchi K, Matoba S, Suehiro H, Nishida K, Matsumoto R. Real-time artificial intelligence-based texture analysis of muscle ultrasound data for neuromuscular disorder assessment. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2024; 9:242-248. [PMID: 39282049 PMCID: PMC11402302 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2024.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Many artificial intelligence approaches to muscle ultrasound image analysis have not been implemented on usable devices in clinical neuromuscular medicine practice, owing to high computational demands and lack of standardised testing protocols. This study evaluated the feasibility of using real-time texture analysis to differentiate between various pathological conditions. Methods We analysed 17,021 cross-sectional ultrasound images of the biceps brachii of 75 participants, including 25 each with neurogenic disorders, myogenic disorders, and healthy controls. The size and location of the regions of interest were randomly selected to minimise bias. A random forest classifier utilising texture features such as Dissimilarity and Homogeneity was developed and deployed on a mobile PC, enabling real-time analysis. Results The classifier distinguished patients with an accuracy of 81 %. Echogenicity and Contrast from the Co-Occurrence Matrix were significant predictive features. Validation on 15 patients achieved accuracies of 78 %/93 % per image/patient over 15-second videos, respectively. The use of a mobile PC facilitated real-time estimation of the underlying pathology during ultrasound examination, without influencing procedures. Conclusions Real-time automatic texture analysis is feasible as an adjunct for the diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders. Significance Artificial intelligence using texture analysis with a light computational load supports the semi-quantitative evaluation of neuromuscular ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshikatsu Noda
- Division of Neurology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Kenji Sekiguchi
- Division of Neurology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Shun Matoba
- Division of Neurology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Hirotomo Suehiro
- Division of Neurology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Katsuya Nishida
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hyogo Chuo National Hospital, 1314 Ohara, Sanda 669-1592, Japan
| | - Riki Matsumoto
- Division of Neurology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
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5
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Ioannou CI, Hodde-Chriske FL, Avraamides MN, Altenmüller E. The impact of fine motor activities like playing musical instruments on the thickness and strength of the flexor digitorum muscle. J Occup Med Toxicol 2024; 19:34. [PMID: 39143476 PMCID: PMC11323442 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-024-00430-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to explore the impact of occupational activities involving extensive finger movement on the muscular characteristics of the forearms. In particular, the flexor digitorum (FD) muscular thickness and strength asymmetry between right and left hand were compared between musicians and non-musicians. METHODS Ultrasonography was employed to measure the thickness of the FD in each hand, while a validated custom-made device was used to assess the strength of the flexor and extensor digitorum (ED). Initially, muscle differences were estimated by computing the asymmetry index between dominant and non-dominant hands. To assess potential occupational disparities, comparisons of the asymmetry index were conducted between 25 right-handed instrumental musicians and 25 right-handed non-musicians. RESULTS Musicians exhibited lower asymmetry between dominant and non-dominant hands in both FD thickness and ED strength when compared to non-musicians. This effect was particularly pronounced in musicians playing instruments that extensively use the left-hand fingers (e.g., violinists). CONCLUSIONS Occupational activities, such as playing a musical instrument, can alter forearm muscle mass and strength distribution between dominant and non-dominant hands. This underscores the importance of considering occupational parameters in clinical or experimental interventions and musculoskeletal assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos I Ioannou
- CYENS Centre of Excellence, 01 Dimarchou Lellou Demitriade Square, Nicosia, 1016, Cyprus.
- Institute of Music Physiology and Musicians' Medicine, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Hanover, Germany.
| | - Franziska L Hodde-Chriske
- Institute of Music Physiology and Musicians' Medicine, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Hanover, Germany
- Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Marios N Avraamides
- CYENS Centre of Excellence, 01 Dimarchou Lellou Demitriade Square, Nicosia, 1016, Cyprus
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Eckart Altenmüller
- Institute of Music Physiology and Musicians' Medicine, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Hanover, Germany
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6
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Zeng R, Schlaeger S, Türk M, Baum T, Deschauer M, Janka R, Karampinos D, Kassubek J, Keller-Yamamura S, Kornblum C, Lehmann H, Lichtenstein T, Nagel AM, Reimann J, Rosenbohm A, Schlaffke L, Schmidt M, Schneider-Gold C, Schoser B, Trollmann R, Vorgerd M, Weber MA, Kirschke JS, Schmidt J. [Expert recommendations for magnetic resonance imaging of muscle disorders]. RADIOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 64:653-662. [PMID: 38639916 DOI: 10.1007/s00117-024-01276-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging of the skeletal muscles (muscle MRI for short) is increasingly being used in clinical routine for diagnosis and longitudinal assessment of muscle disorders. However, cross-centre standards for measurement protocol and radiological assessment are still lacking. OBJECTIVES The aim of this expert recommendation is to present standards for the application and interpretation of muscle MRI in hereditary and inflammatory muscle disorders. METHODS This work was developed in collaboration between neurologists, neuroradiologists, radiologists, neuropaediatricians, neuroscientists and MR physicists from different university hospitals in Germany. The recommendations are based on expert knowledge and a focused literature search. RESULTS The indications for muscle MRI are explained, including the detection and monitoring of structural tissue changes and oedema in the muscle, as well as the identification of a suitable biopsy site. Recommendations for the examination procedure and selection of appropriate MRI sequences are given. Finally, steps for a structured radiological assessment are presented. CONCLUSIONS The present work provides concrete recommendations for the indication, implementation and interpretation of muscle MRI in muscle disorders. Furthermore, it provides a possible basis for the standardisation of the measurement protocols at all clinical centres in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Zeng
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Sarah Schlaeger
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Radiologie, LMU Klinikum, LMU München, München, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Türk
- Neurologische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
- Zentrum für seltene Erkrankungen Erlangen (ZSEER), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Baum
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675
| | - Marcus Deschauer
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Rolf Janka
- Radiologisches Institut, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Dimitrios Karampinos
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Jan Kassubek
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Ulm, Deutschland
| | - Sarah Keller-Yamamura
- Klinik für Radiologie, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Cornelia Kornblum
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Sektion Neuromuskuläre Erkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Helmar Lehmann
- Neurologische Klinik, Klinikum Leverkusen, akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Thorsten Lichtenstein
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Armin M Nagel
- Radiologisches Institut, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Jens Reimann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Sektion Neuromuskuläre Erkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Angela Rosenbohm
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Ulm, Deutschland
| | - Lara Schlaffke
- Klinik für Neurologie, BG Universitätsklinikum Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Manuel Schmidt
- Neuroradiologisches Institut, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | | | - Benedikt Schoser
- Friedrich-Baur-Institut an der Neurologischen Klinik und Poliklinik, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Zentrum für seltene Erkrankungen Erlangen (ZSEER), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
- Abteilung Neuropädiatrie und Sozialpädiatrisches Zentrum am Universitätsklinikum, Kinder- und Jugendklinik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Klinik für Neurologie, BG Universitätsklinikum Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Marc-André Weber
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Kinder- und Neuroradiologie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Jan S Kirschke
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675.
| | - Jens Schmidt
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland.
- Abteilung für Neurologie und Schmerztherapie, Neuromuskuläres Zentrum, Zentrum für Translationale Medizin, Immanuel Klinik Rüdersdorf, Universitätsklinikum der Medizinischen Hochschule Brandenburg, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Deutschland, Seebad 82/83, 15562.
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften Brandenburg, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Deutschland.
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7
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Zeng R, Schlaeger S, Türk M, Baum T, Deschauer M, Janka R, Karampinos D, Kassubek J, Keller-Yamamura S, Kornblum C, Lehmann H, Lichtenstein T, Nagel AM, Reimann J, Rosenbohm A, Schlaffke L, Schmidt M, Schneider-Gold C, Schoser B, Trollmann R, Vorgerd M, Weber MA, Kirschke JS, Schmidt J. [Expert recommendations for magnetic resonance imaging of muscle disorders]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:721-729. [PMID: 38683354 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-024-01673-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging of the skeletal muscles (muscle MRI for short) is increasingly being used in clinical routine for diagnosis and longitudinal assessment of muscle disorders. However, cross-centre standards for measurement protocol and radiological assessment are still lacking. OBJECTIVES The aim of this expert recommendation is to present standards for the application and interpretation of muscle MRI in hereditary and inflammatory muscle disorders. METHODS This work was developed in collaboration between neurologists, neuroradiologists, radiologists, neuropaediatricians, neuroscientists and MR physicists from different university hospitals in Germany. The recommendations are based on expert knowledge and a focused literature search. RESULTS The indications for muscle MRI are explained, including the detection and monitoring of structural tissue changes and oedema in the muscle, as well as the identification of a suitable biopsy site. Recommendations for the examination procedure and selection of appropriate MRI sequences are given. Finally, steps for a structured radiological assessment are presented. CONCLUSIONS The present work provides concrete recommendations for the indication, implementation and interpretation of muscle MRI in muscle disorders. Furthermore, it provides a possible basis for the standardisation of the measurement protocols at all clinical centres in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Zeng
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Sarah Schlaeger
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Radiologie, LMU Klinikum, LMU München, München, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Türk
- Neurologische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
- Zentrum für seltene Erkrankungen Erlangen (ZSEER), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Baum
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675
| | - Marcus Deschauer
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Rolf Janka
- Radiologisches Institut, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Dimitrios Karampinos
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Jan Kassubek
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Ulm, Deutschland
| | - Sarah Keller-Yamamura
- Klinik für Radiologie, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Cornelia Kornblum
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Sektion Neuromuskuläre Erkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Helmar Lehmann
- Neurologische Klinik, Klinikum Leverkusen, akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Thorsten Lichtenstein
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Armin M Nagel
- Radiologisches Institut, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Jens Reimann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Sektion Neuromuskuläre Erkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Angela Rosenbohm
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Ulm, Deutschland
| | - Lara Schlaffke
- Klinik für Neurologie, BG Universitätsklinikum Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Manuel Schmidt
- Neuroradiologisches Institut, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | | | - Benedikt Schoser
- Friedrich-Baur-Institut an der Neurologischen Klinik und Poliklinik, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Zentrum für seltene Erkrankungen Erlangen (ZSEER), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
- Abteilung Neuropädiatrie und Sozialpädiatrisches Zentrum am Universitätsklinikum, Kinder- und Jugendklinik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Klinik für Neurologie, BG Universitätsklinikum Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Marc-André Weber
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Kinder- und Neuroradiologie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Jan S Kirschke
- Abteilung für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675.
| | - Jens Schmidt
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland.
- Abteilung für Neurologie und Schmerztherapie, Neuromuskuläres Zentrum, Zentrum für Translationale Medizin, Immanuel Klinik Rüdersdorf, Universitätsklinikum der Medizinischen Hochschule Brandenburg, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Deutschland, Seebad 82/83, 15562.
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften Brandenburg, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Deutschland.
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8
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Matesanz SE, Brigatti KW, Young M, Yum SW, Strauss KA. Preemptive dual therapy for children at risk for infantile-onset spinal muscular atrophy. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024; 11:1868-1878. [PMID: 38817128 PMCID: PMC11251472 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Compare efficacy of gene therapy alone (monotherapy) or in combination with an SMN2 augmentation agent (dual therapy) for treatment of children at risk for spinal muscular atrophy type 1. METHODS Eighteen newborns with biallelic SMN1 deletions and two SMN2 copies were treated preemptively with monotherapy (n = 11) or dual therapy (n = 7) and followed for a median of 3 years. Primary outcomes were independent sitting and walking. Biomarkers were serial muscle ultrasonography (efficacy) and sensory action potentials (safety). RESULTS Gene therapy was administered by 7-43 postnatal days; dual therapy with risdiplam (n = 6) or nusinersen (n = 1) was started by 15-39 days. Among 18 children enrolled, 17 sat, 15 walked, and 44% had motor delay (i.e., delay or failure to achieve prespecified milestones). Those on dual therapy sat but did not walk at an earlier age. 91% of muscle ultrasounds conducted within 60 postnatal days were normal but by 3-61 months, 94% showed echogenicity and/or fasciculation of at least one muscle group; these changes were indistinguishable between monotherapy and dual therapy cohorts. Five children with three SMN2 copies were treated with monotherapy in parallel: all sat and walked on time and had normal muscle sonograms at all time points. No child on dual therapy experienced treatment-associated adverse events. All 11 participants who completed sensory testing (including six on dual therapy) had intact sural sensory responses. INTERPRETATION Preemptive dual therapy is well tolerated and may provide modest benefit for children at risk for severe spinal muscular atrophy but does not prevent widespread degenerative changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E. Matesanz
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Millie Young
- Clinic for Special ChildrenGordonvillePennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Sabrina W. Yum
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kevin A. Strauss
- Clinic for Special ChildrenGordonvillePennsylvaniaUSA
- Horae Gene Therapy CenterUniversity of Massachusetts Chan Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
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9
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Wang J, Wang Y, Zhou B, Wang L, Lai Z. Age-Related Reduction of Foot Intrinsic Muscle Function and the Relationship with Postural Stability in Old Adults. Clin Interv Aging 2024; 19:1005-1015. [PMID: 38855030 PMCID: PMC11162186 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s454068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The risk of falls among the elderly significantly increases, which has become a serious public health concern. Falls can not only lead to serious complications such as fractures and brain injuries but also limit their mobility function, reducing quality of life. Foot intrinsic muscles (FIMs) are an essential part of foot core stability even overall postural stability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aging on the function of FIMs and to explore the influence of FIMs on postural control in the elderly. Materials and Methods 56 healthy old participants (60-75 years) and 57 healthy young participants (18-29 years) joined this study. An ergoFet dynamometer was used to determine foot muscle strength (Doming, T1, T23 and T2345), and ankle muscle strength (plantarflexion and dorsiflexion). The morphology of FIMs and extrinsic foot muscle was determined using a Doppler ultrasound system, whereas the postural stability was assessed through Limits of Stability test. Independent samples t-test was used to determine the differences in strength and morphological parameters and Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine whether an association existed between muscle strength and postural stability parameters in the elderly. Results Compared with young adults, foot muscle strength and ankle muscle strength (Doming, T1, T23, T2345, dorsiflexion, and plantarflexion, all p <0.05) and the morphology of foot muscles (all p <0.05) were significantly reduced in the elderly. The strength of FIMs and the limit of stability (r = 0.302-0.424, all p <0.05) were significantly correlated in the elderly. Conclusion Compared with young adults, the weakness of strength as well as the morphological decline of the intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles were found in the elderly. In addition, a correlation was observed between FIM's strength and postural stability in the elderly, suggesting their potential role in posture stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Wang
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine (School of Rehabilitation Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine (School of Rehabilitation Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bangguo Zhou
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences (Shanghai University of Sport), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhangqi Lai
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine (School of Rehabilitation Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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10
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Battersby HS, Holmes SC, Shumski EJ, Heredia CE, Garcia SA, Pamukoff DN. The Influence of Knee Position on Ultrasound Imaging of Femoral Cartilage in Individuals with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction. Cartilage 2024; 15:84-93. [PMID: 37846037 PMCID: PMC11368891 DOI: 10.1177/19476035231205682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Articular cartilage is important for knee function and can be imaged using ultrasound. The purpose was to compare femoral cartilage thickness and echo intensity (EI) measured at 90° and 140° of knee flexion and between limbs in a cohort with unilateral anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). We also examined associations between gait biomechanics and cartilage outcomes. METHODS Twenty-seven individuals with primary unilateral ACLR participated (12 men, 15 women; age = 22.3 ± 3.8 years; time since ACLR = 71.2 ± 47.2 months). Ultrasound was used to obtain femoral cartilage measurements. Gait outcomes included peak KFA (knee flexion angle) and peak external knee flexion moment (KFM). Cartilage outcomes were compared using a 2 (position) × 2 (limb) repeated measures ANOVA (analysis of variance). Gait and cartilage associations were assessed using linear regression. FINDINGS There were no position × limb interactions for any cartilage outcome (all P > 0.05). Medial (P = 0.038) and central cartilage (P < 0.001) were thicker, whereas central (P = 0.029) and lateral cartilage EI (P = 0.003) were lower when measured at 90° than those at 140° of knee flexion. Medial cartilage was thicker in the ACLR than that in the contralateral limb (P = 0.016). A larger KFM was associated with thicker medial cartilage (ΔR2 = 0.146, P = 0.021) and central cartilage (ΔR2 = 0.159, P = 0.039) measured at 140° of knee flexion in the ACLR limb but not at 90°. INTERPRETATION Findings suggest that imaging position influences cartilage thickness and EI measurements in individuals with ACLR and should be considered in study designs and clinical evaluation. A greater KFM was associated with thicker cartilage within specific portions of the distal femur.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Skylar C. Holmes
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Eric J. Shumski
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | | | - Steven A. Garcia
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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11
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Jo HD, Kim MK. Identification of EIMD Level Differences Between Long- and Short Head of Biceps Brachii Using Echo Intensity and GLCM Texture Features. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2024; 95:441-449. [PMID: 37698509 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2023.2250832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to compare the time-course changes of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) levels in the long head of biceps brachii (LHB) and short head of the biceps brachii (SHB) using echo intensity (EI) and to determine the efficiency of the gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) texture parameters. Methods: The participants performed 30 maximal eccentric contractions of the elbow flexor. Along with muscle damage indicators, including circumference, range of motion, muscle soreness, and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), the EI and GLCM texture features of the LHB and SHB was also assessed using B-mode ultrasonography. All measurements were assessed pre- and immediately post-exercise and after 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Results: The muscle damage indicators indicated significant changes after the eccentric contractions (p < 0.01 for circumference, range of motion, muscle soreness, and MVIC). The EI of LHB significantly increased following the contractions (p < 0.01), but that of SHB did not (p > 0.05). In contrast, for the GLCM texture parameters, there were significant changes in the SHB (p < 0.01 for homogeneity, energy, and entropy). Conclusion: Thus, this study demonstrated that EIMD severity is different between LHB and SHB even within the same muscle. In the GLCM features, the time course of SHB after eccentric contraction revealed different patterns compared with those of LHB. Therefore, even if there are no changes in EI within a target muscle following muscle contractions, new information on muscle quality can be obtained through GLCM analysis.
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12
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Boissonnault È, Jeon A, Munin MC, Filippetti M, Picelli A, Haldane C, Reebye R. Assessing muscle architecture with ultrasound: implications for spasticity. Eur J Transl Myol 2024; 34:12397. [PMID: 38818772 PMCID: PMC11264226 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2024.12397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A (BoNT-A) injections using Ultrasound (US) guidance have led to research evaluating changes in muscle architecture. Controversy remains as to what constitutes increased Echo-Intensity (EI) in spastic muscles and whether this may affect outcomes. We aim to provide a narrative review of US muscle architecture changes following Central Nervous System (CNS) lesions and explore their relationship to spasticity. Medline, CINAHL, and Embase databases were searched with keywords: ultrasonography, hypertonia, spasticity, fibrosis, and Heckmatt. Three physicians reviewed the results of the search to select relevant papers. Reviews identified in the search were used as a resource to identify additional studies. A total of 68 papers were included. Four themes were identified, including histopathological changes in spastic muscle, effects of BoNT-A on the muscle structure, available US modalities to assess the muscle, and utility of US assessment in clinical spasticity. Histopathological studies revealed atrophic and fibro-fatty changes after CNS lesions. Several papers described BoNT-A injections contributing to those modifications. These changes translated to increased EI. The exact significance of increased muscle EI remains unclear. The Modified Heckmatt Scale (MHS) is a validated tool for grading muscle EI in spasticity. The use of the US may be an important tool to assess muscle architecture changes in spasticity and improve spasticity management. Treatment algorithms may be developed based on the degree of EI. Further research is needed to determine the incidence and impact of these EI changes in spastic muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ève Boissonnault
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston.
| | - April Jeon
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston, Canada; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh.
| | - Michael C Munin
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston, Canada; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh.
| | - Mirko Filippetti
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston, Canada; Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona.
| | - Alessandro Picelli
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston, Canada; Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona.
| | - Chloe Haldane
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston, Canada; Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
| | - Rajiv Reebye
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium (CANOSC), Kingston, Canada; Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
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Prell T, Grimm A, Axer H. Uncovering sarcopenia and frailty in older adults by using muscle ultrasound-A narrative review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1333205. [PMID: 38828232 PMCID: PMC11140070 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1333205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Muscle ultrasound is a valuable non-invasive and cost-effective method in assessing muscle mass and structure, both of which are significant indicators for the development of sarcopenia and frailty in elderly individuals. Sarcopenia refers to the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with age, whereas frailty is a complex geriatric syndrome characterized by reduced physical function and an increased susceptibility to negative health outcomes. Both conditions are prevalent in older adults and are associated with higher risks of falls, disability, and mortality. By measuring muscle size and structure and several other ultrasound parameters, including muscle thickness, cross-sectional area, echogenicity (brightness in the ultrasound image), pennation angle, and fascicle length ultrasound can assist in identifying sarcopenia and frailty in older adults. In addition, ultrasound can be used to evaluate muscle function such as muscle contraction and stiffness, which may also be affected in sarcopenia and frailty. Therefore, muscle ultrasound could lead to better identification and tracking of sarcopenia and frailty. Such advancements could result in the implementation of earlier interventions to prevent or treat these conditions, resulting in an overall improvement in the health and quality of life of the elderly population. This narrative review describes the benefits and challenges when using ultra-sound for the evaluation of frailty and sarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tino Prell
- Department of Geriatrics, Halle University Hospital, Halle, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Alexander Grimm
- Department of Neurology, Tübingen University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hubertus Axer
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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Wu M, Liu C, Sun D. Glucocorticoid-Induced Myopathy: Typology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Horm Metab Res 2024; 56:341-349. [PMID: 38224966 DOI: 10.1055/a-2246-2900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid-induced myopathy is a non-inflammatory toxic myopathy typified by proximal muscle weakness, muscle atrophy, fatigue, and easy fatigability. These vague symptoms coupled with underlying disorders may mask the signs of glucocorticoid-induced myopathy, leading to an underestimation of the disease's impact. This review briefly summarizes the classification, pathogenesis, and treatment options for glucocorticoid-induced muscle wasting. Additionally, we discuss current diagnostic measures in clinical research and routine care used for diagnosing and monitoring glucocorticoid-induced myopathy, which includes gait speed tests, muscle strength tests, hematologic tests, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electromyography, quantitative muscle ultrasound, histological examination, and genetic analysis. Continuous monitoring of patients receiving glucocorticoid therapy plays an important role in enabling early detection of glucocorticoid-induced myopathy, allowing physicians to modify treatment plans before significant clinical weakness arises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Wu
- Department of Nephrology, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital, Xuzhou, China
- Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Caixia Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital, Xuzhou, China
- Department of Internal Medicine and Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
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15
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Pelosi L, Rodrigues M, Zhong C, Patel S, Roxburgh R. Quantitative muscle ultrasound in adult spinal muscular atrophy. A pilot study. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:349-353. [PMID: 38158390 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Muscle ultrasound has been investigated in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and proposed as a potential biomarker of disease severity. We studied the ultrasound properties in adults with SMA to see whether they also have potential as markers of disease severity in older patients. METHODS Thickness and quantitative echogenicity of muscle and subcutaneous tissue were compared between eight prospectively recruited adult patients with SMA and eight age, sex and body mass index-matched controls. Measurements were made in the dominant deltoid, biceps, triceps, forearm extensors, first dorsal interosseous, quadriceps, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius muscles. The muscle-to-subcutaneous (M:S) thickness and echogenicity ratios were also calculated. A mean value across all muscles as well as the individual values for each muscle were then calculated for each parameter in each subject and compared between the two groups. Significance was set at 0.05 after Bonferroni correction. RESULTS In the SMA patients, mean muscle thickness was significantly smaller (1.3 vs. 1.9 cm), muscle echogenicity higher (106 vs. 67 on the grayscale level), and subcutaneous thickness larger (0.9 vs. 0.3 cm) than in controls; M:S echogenicity ratio was significantly increased and M:S thickness ratio reduced in the patients. The most abnormal scores were found in the nonambulatory patients and the least abnormal in the ambulatory patients. DISCUSSION Ultrasound can detect and quantify the severity of muscle atrophy and structure in adult SMA, suggesting a potential role as a marker of disease severity, which will require validation by larger studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Pelosi
- Departments of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Bay of Plenty District Health Board, Tauranga Hospital, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - Miriam Rodrigues
- Department of Neurology, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre of Brain Research Neurogenetics Research Clinic, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Cathy Zhong
- Department of Neurology, Wellington Hospital, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Shilpan Patel
- Department of Neurology, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Richard Roxburgh
- Department of Neurology, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre of Brain Research Neurogenetics Research Clinic, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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McDonald C, Camino E, Escandon R, Finkel RS, Fischer R, Flanigan K, Furlong P, Juhasz R, Martin AS, Villa C, Sweeney HL. Draft Guidance for Industry Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Becker Muscular Dystrophy, and Related Dystrophinopathies - Developing Potential Treatments for the Entire Spectrum of Disease. J Neuromuscul Dis 2024; 11:499-523. [PMID: 38363616 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-230219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Background Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and related dystrophinopathies are neuromuscular conditions with great unmet medical needs that require the development of effective medical treatments. Objective To aid sponsors in clinical development of drugs and therapeutic biological products for treating DMD across the disease spectrum by integrating advancements, patient registries, natural history studies, and more into a comprehensive guidance. Methods This guidance emerged from collaboration between the FDA, the Duchenne community, and industry stakeholders. It entailed a structured approach, involving multiple committees and boards. From its inception in 2014, the guidance underwent revisions incorporating insights from gene therapy studies, cardiac function research, and innovative clinical trial designs. Results The guidance provides a deeper understanding of DMD and its variants, focusing on patient engagement, diagnostic criteria, natural history, biomarkers, and clinical trials. It underscores patient-focused drug development, the significance of dystrophin as a biomarker, and the pivotal role of magnetic resonance imaging in assessing disease progression. Additionally, the guidance addresses cardiomyopathy's prominence in DMD and the burgeoning field of gene therapy. Conclusions The updated guidance offers a comprehensive understanding of DMD, emphasizing patient-centric approaches, innovative trial designs, and the importance of biomarkers. The focus on cardiomyopathy and gene therapy signifies the evolving realm of DMD research. It acts as a crucial roadmap for sponsors, potentially leading to improved treatments for DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Camino
- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rafael Escandon
- DGBI Consulting, LLC, Bainbridge Island, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Ryan Fischer
- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kevin Flanigan
- Center for Experimental Neurotherapeutics, Department of Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Pat Furlong
- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rose Juhasz
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ann S Martin
- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chet Villa
- Trinity Health Michigan, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - H Lee Sweeney
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center within the UC Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Grozier C, Keen M, Collins K, Tolzman J, Fajardo R, Slade JM, Kuenze C, Harkey MS. Rectus Femoris Ultrasound Echo Intensity Is a Valid Estimate of Percent Intramuscular Fat in Patients Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:2590-2595. [PMID: 37770296 PMCID: PMC10595047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the work described here was to evaluate quadriceps muscle ultrasound metrics and common demographic variables to create a conversion equation that validly predicts magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) percent intramuscular fat after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). METHODS We recruited 15 participants between the ages of 18 and 35 y who were 1-5 y post-ACLR. For the MRI assessment, we used an iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation (IDEAL) sequence to assess the mid-thigh. A single reader manually segmented the rectus femoris on two consecutive MRI slices using ITK-Snap to estimate the percent intramuscular fat. For the ultrasound assessment, a single investigator captured transverse panoramic ultrasound images of the mid-thigh with the participant positioned supine and the knee flexed to 30°. A separate single reader used ImageJ to manually segment the rectus femoris ultrasound images. Ultrasound metrics included muscle cross-sectional area, echo intensity and subcutaneous fat thickness. A stepwise linear multiple regression was used to develop an equation to predict MRI percent intramuscular fat using the ultrasound metrics and common demographics (i.e., age, sex, height, mass). Additionally, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC2,k) and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess the agreement between true and estimated percent intramuscular fat. RESULTS Echo intensity and age significantly predicted MRI intramuscular fat percent (p = 0.003, r2 = 0.62). When using the conversion equation, there was high agreement (ICC2,k = 0.87, 95% confidence interval: 0.62-0.96) between the estimated and true percent intramuscular fat. CONCLUSION Our patient population-specific conversion equation that uses quadriceps muscle ultrasound echo intensity and age is a valid estimate of MRI percent intramuscular fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey Grozier
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Megan Keen
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Katherine Collins
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jessica Tolzman
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - Jill M Slade
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Christopher Kuenze
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Matthew S Harkey
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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Lin CW, Shieh JY, Tsui PH, Chen CL, Lu CH, Hung YH, Lee HY, Weng WC, Gau SSF. Acoustic radiation force impulse shear wave elastography quantifies upper limb muscle in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2023; 101:106661. [PMID: 37924615 PMCID: PMC10641721 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2023.106661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
We investigated whether the upper limb muscle stiffness quantified by the acoustic radiation force impulse shear wave elastography (ARFI/SWE) is a potential biomarker for age-related muscle alteration and functional decline in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). 37 patients with DMD and 30 typically developing controls (TDC) were grouped by age (3-8, 9-11, and 12-18 years). ARFI/SWE measured the biceps and deltoid muscle's shear wave velocities (SWVs). Performance of Upper Limb Module (PUL 1.2 module) assessed muscle function in DMD patients. Mann Whitney test compared muscle SWVs between DMD and TDC, stratified by three age groups. We used analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction to compare muscle SWVs between DMD and TDC and correlated muscle SWVs with PUL results in the DMD group. Results showed that the SWVs of biceps differentiated DMD patients from TDC across age groups. Younger DMD patients (3-8 years) exhibited higher SWVs (p = 0.013), but older DMD patients (12-18 years) showed lower SWVS (p = 0.028) than same-aged TDC. DMD patients had decreasing biceps SWVs with age (p < 0.001), with no such age effect in TDC. The SWVs of deltoid and biceps positively correlated with PUL scores (r = 0.527 ∼ 0.897, P < 0.05) and negatively correlated with PUL timed measures (r = -0.425 ∼ -0.542, P < 0.05) in DMD patients. Our findings suggest that ARFI/SWE quantifying the SWVs in upper limb muscle could be a potential biomarker to differentiate DMD from TDC across ages and that DMD patients showed age-related muscle alteration and limb functional decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Wei Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No.1, Chang-Te St., Taipei 10048, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Yi Shieh
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsiang Tsui
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chang Gung University, 259 Wen-Hwa 1st Road, Kwei-Shan Dist, Tao-Yuan City 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ling Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hao Lu
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chang Gung University, 259 Wen-Hwa 1st Road, Kwei-Shan Dist, Tao-Yuan City 33302, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsuan Hung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Yuan Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, No. 2, Sec. 1, Shengyi Rd., Zhubei City, Hsinchu County 302, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chin Weng
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan 10002, Taiwan; Department of Pediatric Neurology, National Taiwan University Children's Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan 10002, Taiwan.
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No.1, Chang-Te St., Taipei 10048, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, and College of Medicine, No. 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University, No.1 Jen Ai road section 1, Taipei 100 Taiwan.
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19
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Vincenten SCC, Teeselink S, Voermans NC, van Engelen BGM, Mul K, van Alfen N. Establishing the role of muscle ultrasound as an imaging biomarker in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:936-944. [PMID: 37968164 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is a hereditary muscle disease, that causes weakness and wasting of skeletal muscles. In this cross-sectional cohort-study on FSHD patients, we assessed muscle ultrasound findings and their relation to clinical outcome measures, evaluating the role of ultrasound as biomarker in FSHD. We included 115 genetically confirmed FSHD patients (52% males, age-range 22-80 years). They were subjected to a standardized muscle ultrasound protocol of seven truncal and upper- and lower extremity muscles bilaterally. Muscle images were scored using the Heckmatt scale. Muscle echogenicity was quantified using z-scores. Compound echogenicity and Heckmatt scores were calculated. Nearly all patients (94%) had one or multiple muscles with an increased echogenicity z-score. The trapezius muscle was most severely affected, followed by the rectus femoris muscle. Both compound ultrasound scores strongly with multiple clinical outcome measures (ρ 0.68-0.79, p < 0.001). While most muscles showed a high level of agreement between the echogenicity z-score and Heckmatt score (>95%), the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscle showed lower levels of agreement (82 and 92%). In conclusion, our study confirms the use of muscle ultrasound as clinical severity biomarker and provides a solid base for future longitudinal studies to establish ultrasound as a monitoring biomarker in FSHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C C Vincenten
- Radboud University Medical Center, Clinical Neuromuscular Imaging Group, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - S Teeselink
- Radboud University Medical Center, Clinical Neuromuscular Imaging Group, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - N C Voermans
- Radboud University Medical Center, Clinical Neuromuscular Imaging Group, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - B G M van Engelen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Clinical Neuromuscular Imaging Group, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - K Mul
- Radboud University Medical Center, Clinical Neuromuscular Imaging Group, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - N van Alfen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Clinical Neuromuscular Imaging Group, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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20
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Fionda L, Vanoli F, Di Pasquale A, Leonardi L, Morino S, Merlonghi G, Lauletta A, Alfieri G, Costanzo R, Tufano L, Rossini E, Bucci E, Grossi A, Tupler R, Salvetti M, Garibaldi M, Antonini G. Comparison of quantitative muscle ultrasound and whole-body muscle MRI in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 patients. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:4057-4064. [PMID: 37311950 PMCID: PMC10570177 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-06842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Muscle ultrasound is a fast, non-invasive and cost-effective examination that can identify structural muscular changes by assessing muscle thickness and echointensity (EI) with a quantitative analysis (QMUS). To assess applicability and repeatability of QMUS, we evaluated patients with genetically confirmed facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 (FSHD1), comparing their muscle ultrasound characteristics with healthy controls and with those detected by MRI. We also evaluated relationships between QMUS and demographic and clinical characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirteen patients were included in the study. Clinical assessment included MRC sum score, FSHD score and The Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation Form (CCEF). QMUS was performed with a linear transducer scanning bilaterally pectoralis major, deltoid, rectus femoris, tibialis anterior and semimembranosus muscles in patients and healthy subjects. For each muscle, we acquired three images, which were analysed calculating muscle EI by computer-assisted grey-scale analysis. QMUS analysis was compared with semiquantitative 1.5 T muscle MRI scale. RESULTS All muscles in FSHD patients showed a significant increased echogenicity compared to the homologous muscles in healthy subjects. Older subjects and patients with higher FSHD score presented increased muscle EI. Tibialis anterior MRC showed a significant inverse correlation with EI. Higher median EI was found in muscles with more severe MRI fat replacement. CONCLUSIONS QMUS allows quantitative evaluation of muscle echogenicity, displaying a tight correlation with muscular alterations, clinical and MRI data. Although a confirmation on larger sample is needed, our research suggests a possible future application of QMUS in diagnosis and management of muscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fionda
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fiammetta Vanoli
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
- Neurology IV-Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Luca Leonardi
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Morino
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Gioia Merlonghi
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lauletta
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Girolamo Alfieri
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
- Neurology IV-Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Rocco Costanzo
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Tufano
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Rossini
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bucci
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Grossi
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Tupler
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Garibaldi
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Neuromuscular and Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
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21
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Smith IC, Chakraborty S, Bourque PR, Sampaio ML, Melkus G, Lochmüller H, Woulfe J, Parks RJ, Brais B, Warman-Chardon J. Emerging and established biomarkers of oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:824-834. [PMID: 37926637 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) is a rare, primarily autosomal dominant, late onset muscular dystrophy commonly presenting with ptosis, dysphagia, and subsequent weakness of proximal muscles. Although OPMD diagnosis can be confirmed with high confidence by genetic testing, the slow progression of OPMD poses a significant challenge to clinical monitoring and a barrier to assessing the efficacy of treatments during clinical trials. Accordingly, there is a pressing need for more sensitive measures of OPMD progression, particularly those which do not require a muscle biopsy. This review provides an overview of progress in OPMD biomarkers from clinical assessment, quantitative imaging, histological assessments, and genomics, as well as hypothesis-generating "omics" approaches. The ongoing search for biomarkers relevant to OPMD progression needs an integrative, longitudinal approach combining validated and experimental approaches which may include clinical, imaging, demographic, and biochemical assessment methods. A multi-omics approach to biochemical biomarker discovery could help provide context for differences found between individuals with varying levels of disease activity and provide insight into pathomechanisms and prognosis of OPMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian C Smith
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | | | - Pierre R Bourque
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital/University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Marcos L Sampaio
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 4E9, Canada; Department of Radiology, Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Gerd Melkus
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 4E9, Canada; Department of Physics, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital/University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Genetics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Robin J Parks
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital/University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Bernard Brais
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Jodi Warman-Chardon
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital/University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Eric Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Genetics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada; Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada.
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22
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Yuguchi S, Ochi Y, Sagata Y, Idesako M, Maeda S, Asahi R, Taniguchi M. Echo Intensity of Gastrocnemius Is Independently Associated with 6-Minute Walking Distance in Male Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1894. [PMID: 38003944 PMCID: PMC10673193 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59111894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to examine the differences in the thickness and echo intensity (EI) of the gastrocnemius muscle measured via ultrasonography between healthy adults and patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and to determine the associations of gastrocnemius thickness (GT) and EI within a 6 min walking distance (6MD) in patients with PAD. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study targeted 35 male patients with PAD (mean age, 73.7 years; mean body mass index [BMI], 23.5 kg/m2) and age- and gender-matched 73 male healthy adults (mean age, 73.2 years; mean BMI, 23.3 kg/m2). The gastrocnemius thickness (GT) and EI were measured using ultrasound. Both legs of patients with PAD were classified based on higher and lower ankle brachial pressure index (ABI), and the GTs and EIs with higher and lower ABI were compared with those of healthy adults. Multiple regression analysis incorporated 6MD as a dependent variable and each GT and EI with higher and lower ABI, age, and BMI as independent variables. Results: This study showed that GT was considerably greater in healthy adults than in both legs with higher and lower ABI (median values, 13.3 vs. 11.3 vs. 10.7, p < 0.01), whereas EI was lower in healthy adults than in the lower ABI leg (72.0 vs. 80.8 vs. 83.6, p < 0.05). The 6MD was shown to be substantially related to EI in both legs with higher and lower ABIs (p < 0.01) but not in the GT. Conclusions: In patients with PAD, the GT was lower, and EI was higher than in healthy adults. In addition, EIs in both legs with higher and lower ABIs were independently associated with 6MD in male PAD patients. This study showed that the EI measured via ultrasonography could become an important indicator for treatments for patients with PAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Yuguchi
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Japan University of Health Sciences, 2-555, Hirasuka, Satte-City 340-0145, Saitama, Japan;
| | - Yusuke Ochi
- Department of Rehabilitation, Fukuyama Cardiovascular Hospital, 2-39, Midorimachi, Fukuyama-City 720-0804, Hiroshima, Japan; (Y.O.)
| | - Yukari Sagata
- Department of Rehabilitation, Fukuyama Cardiovascular Hospital, 2-39, Midorimachi, Fukuyama-City 720-0804, Hiroshima, Japan; (Y.O.)
| | - Mitsuhiro Idesako
- Department of Rehabilitation, Fukuyama Cardiovascular Hospital, 2-39, Midorimachi, Fukuyama-City 720-0804, Hiroshima, Japan; (Y.O.)
| | - Shino Maeda
- Department of Rehabilitation, Fukuyama Cardiovascular Hospital, 2-39, Midorimachi, Fukuyama-City 720-0804, Hiroshima, Japan; (Y.O.)
| | - Ryoma Asahi
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Japan University of Health Sciences, 2-555, Hirasuka, Satte-City 340-0145, Saitama, Japan;
| | - Masahito Taniguchi
- Department of Cardiology, Fukuyama Cardiovascular Hospital, 2-39, Midorimachi, Fukuyama-City 720-0804, Hiroshima, Japan
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23
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Kitagawa T, Nakamura M, Fukumoto Y. Usefulness of muscle echo intensity for evaluating functional performance in the older population: A scoping review. Exp Gerontol 2023; 182:112301. [PMID: 37776985 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Muscle echo intensity, as measured by ultrasonography, could be used as a new marker of functional performance in older populations. This scoping review aimed to present evidence on the utility of muscle echo intensity as determined by ultrasonography for assessing functional performance in older adults. The eligibility criterion included observational studies that investigated the associations between muscle echo intensity and functional performance in older adults. Terms, such as "echo intensity" and "older adults", were searched for in databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane database of systematic reviews, and the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, in April 2021. Two independent reviewers screened and extracted the data; 46 papers, of which almost one-third were Japanese, were subsequently identified for inclusion. The representative functional performances included in this review were muscle strength, gait speed, sit-to-stand test results, and timed up-and-go test results. Poor to moderate associations were found between muscle echo intensity and functional performance; however, heterogeneities were observed in the characteristics of study participants. Moreover, the accurate effect size and causal inferences between muscle echo intensity and functional performance remained unclear. Further longitudinal studies are needed to determine these causal inferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kitagawa
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Shinshu University, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan.
| | - Masatoshi Nakamura
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Nishi Kyushu University, 4490-9 Ozaki, Kanzaki 842-8585, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiro Fukumoto
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shin-machi, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan.
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24
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Zaottini F, Picasso R, Pistoia F, Perez MM, Bianco D, Simone R, Rossi G, Macciò M, Pansecchi M, Tovt L, Martinoli C. Ultrasound of the plantar foot: a guide for the assessment of plantar intrinsic muscles. J Ultrason 2023; 23:e151-e160. [PMID: 37732108 PMCID: PMC10508328 DOI: 10.15557/jou.2023.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Plantar intrinsic muscles play a pivotal role in posture control and gait dynamics. They help maintain the longitudinal and transverse arches of the foot, and they regulate the degree and velocity of arch deformation during walking or running. Consequently, pathologies affecting the plantar intrinsic muscles (for instance, acquired and inherited neuropathies) lead to foot deformity, gait disorders, and painful syndromes. Intrinsic muscle malfunctioning is also associated with multifactorial overuse or degenerative conditions such as pes planus, hallux valgus, and plantar fasciitis. As the clinical examination of each intrinsic muscle is challenging, ultrasound is gaining a growing interest as an imaging tool to investigate the trophism of these muscular structures and the pattern of their alterations, and potentially to follow up on the effects of dedicated rehabilitation protocols. The ten plantar intrinsic muscles can be dived into three groups (medial, central and lateral) and four layers. Here, we propose a regional and landmark-based approach to the complex sonoanatomy of the plantar intrinsic muscles in order to facilitate the correct identification of each muscle from the superficial to the deepest layer. We also summarize the pathological ultrasound findings that can be encountered when scanning the plantar muscles, pointing out the patterns of alterations specific to certain conditions, such as plantar nerves mononeuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Zaottini
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Riccardo Picasso
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Federico Pistoia
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maribel Miguel Perez
- Unit of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Bellvitge Campus), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Deborah Bianco
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rinaldi Simone
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Rossi
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marta Macciò
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michelle Pansecchi
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Tovt
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carlo Martinoli
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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25
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Lapp HS, Freigang M, Hagenacker T, Weiler M, Wurster CD, Günther R. Biomarkers in 5q-associated spinal muscular atrophy-a narrative review. J Neurol 2023; 270:4157-4178. [PMID: 37289324 PMCID: PMC10421827 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11787-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
5q-associated spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetic disease caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene, resulting in a loss of functional SMN protein and consecutive degeneration of motor neurons in the ventral horn. The disease is clinically characterized by proximal paralysis and secondary skeletal muscle atrophy. New disease-modifying drugs driving SMN gene expression have been developed in the past decade and have revolutionized SMA treatment. The rise of treatment options led to a concomitant need of biomarkers for therapeutic guidance and an improved disease monitoring. Intensive efforts have been undertaken to develop suitable markers, and numerous candidate biomarkers for diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive values have been identified. The most promising markers include appliance-based measures such as electrophysiological and imaging-based indices as well as molecular markers including SMN-related proteins and markers of neurodegeneration and skeletal muscle integrity. However, none of the proposed biomarkers have been validated for the clinical routine yet. In this narrative review, we discuss the most promising candidate biomarkers for SMA and expand the discussion by addressing the largely unfolded potential of muscle integrity markers, especially in the context of upcoming muscle-targeting therapies. While the discussed candidate biomarkers hold potential as either diagnostic (e.g., SMN-related biomarkers), prognostic (e.g., markers of neurodegeneration, imaging-based markers), predictive (e.g., electrophysiological markers) or response markers (e.g., muscle integrity markers), no single measure seems to be suitable to cover all biomarker categories. Hence, a combination of different biomarkers and clinical assessments appears to be the most expedient solution at the time.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Lapp
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - M Freigang
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - T Hagenacker
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Science (C-TNBS), University Medicine Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - M Weiler
- Department of Neurology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C D Wurster
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - René Günther
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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26
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Akima H, Yamamori K, Taniguchi K, Fujimiya M, Katayose M, Yoshiko A, Tanaka N. Effect of subcutaneous adipose tissue and muscle thicknesses on rectus femoris and vastus intermedius ultrasound echo intensities: a cadaver study. J Ultrasound 2023; 26:635-642. [PMID: 35947295 PMCID: PMC10469120 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-022-00696-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SCAT) thickness and rectus femoris (RF) muscle thickness on RF and vastus intermedius (VI) echo intensity using human cadavers. METHODS The echo intensity of the RF and VI was measured in 11 legs of seven cadavers under three conditions: intact condition (Model 1), SCAT removed (Model 2), and SCAT and RF removed (Model 3). RESULTS RF echo intensity in Model 1 (69.2 ± 20.3 a.u.) was significantly lower than that in Model 2 (83.4 ± 15.9 a.u.) (P = 0.003). VI echo intensity in Models 1 to 3 showed similar results to RF echo intensity (P = 0.003 to 0.001). Regarding the relationship between VI echo intensity and VI muscle thickness, the regression lines shifted upward in a parallel fashion in the order Model 1, Model 2, and Model 3. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the variation in RF echo intensity was explained by RF muscle thickness (P = 0.036) and SCAT thickness (P = 0.001), while the variation in VI echo intensity was explained by RF muscle thickness (P = 0.035). CONCLUSION These results suggest that SCAT thickness and RF muscle thickness induce lower RF echo intensity, while RF muscle thickness induces lower VI echo intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Akima
- Research Center of Health, Physical Fitness and Sports, Nagoya University, 1 Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan.
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, Nagoya University, 1 Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan.
| | - Keisuke Yamamori
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, Nagoya University, 1 Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan
| | - Keigo Taniguchi
- School of Health Science, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17, Chuo, Sapporo, 060-8556, Japan
| | - Mineko Fujimiya
- School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17, Chuo, Sapporo, 060-8556, Japan
| | - Masaki Katayose
- School of Health Science, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17, Chuo, Sapporo, 060-8556, Japan
| | - Akito Yoshiko
- Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Chukyo University, 101 Tokodachi, Kaizu, Toyota, Aichi, 470-0393, Japan
| | - Noriko Tanaka
- Research Center of Health, Physical Fitness and Sports, Nagoya University, 1 Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, Nagoya University, 1 Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan
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Santana L, Fachin-Martins E, Borges DL, Tenório Cavalcante JG, Babault N, Neto FR, Quagliotti Durigan JL, Marqueti RDC. Neuromuscular disorders in women and men with spinal cord injury are associated with changes in muscle and tendon architecture. J Spinal Cord Med 2023; 46:742-752. [PMID: 35196216 PMCID: PMC10446789 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2035619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to determine the association between neuromuscular function, motor function impairment, and muscle and tendon structures in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) compared to a control (non-disabled) population. DESIGN A cross-sectional study with a control group. SETTING Center of Adapted Sports Training and Special Physical Education. PARTICIPANTS Fifteen individuals with SCI and motor function impairments participated in the study. A paired non-disabled group was recruited for comparison. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. OUTCOME MEASURES Muscle (biceps brachii, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and tibialis anterior) and tendon (quadriceps and patellar tendons) structures were assessed by ultrasound imaging (thickness, pennation angle, fascicle length, and echogenicity). Neuromuscular electrophysiological disorders were also assessed using electrodiagnosis techniques (stimulus non-responsivity and chronaxie) in the same muscles. RESULTS Except for the biceps brachii muscle, muscle thickness, pennation angle, and fascicle length were lower (p < 0.01) while echogenicity and chronaxie were greater (p < 0.01) in SCI participants. The SCI participants had a higher prevalence of neuromuscular electrophysiological disorders for all muscles, except the biceps brachii. CONCLUSION Neuromuscular disorders occur in association with muscle and tendon maladaptation in individuals with chronic SCI. A higher prevalence of electrophysiological disorders suggests an acquired polyneuromyopathy for muscles with motor function impairment even though the muscle was innerved, in addition to widespread muscle atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Santana
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Emerson Fachin-Martins
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - David Lobato Borges
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | | | - Nicolas Babault
- Centre d'Expertise de la Performance G. Cometti, U1093-INSERM, CAPS, Faculté des Sciences du Sport, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Dijon, France
| | | | - João Luiz Quagliotti Durigan
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rita de Cássia Marqueti
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
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Crawford SK, Kliethermes SA, Heiderscheit BC, Bashford GR. Influence of ultrasound machine settings on quantitative measures derived from spatial frequency analysis of muscle tissue. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2023; 24:664. [PMID: 37608370 PMCID: PMC10463672 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06790-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound is a powerful tool for diagnostic purposes and provides insight into both normal and pathologic tissue structure. Spatial frequency analysis (SFA) methods characterize musculoskeletal tissue organization from ultrasound images. Both sonographers in clinical imaging and researchers may alter a minimized range of ultrasound settings to optimize image quality, and it is important to know how these small adjustments of these settings affect SFA parameters. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of making small adjustments in a typical default ultrasound machine setting on extracted spatial frequency parameters (peak spatial frequency radius (PSFR), Mmax, Mmax%, and Sum) in the biceps femoris muscle. METHODS Longitudinal B-mode images were collected from the biceps femoris muscle in 36 participants. The window depth, foci locations, and gain were systematically adjusted consistent with clinical imaging procedures for a total of 27 images per participant. Images were analyzed by identifying a region of interest (ROI) in the middle portion of the muscle belly in a template image and using a normalized two-dimensional cross-correlation technique between the template image and subsequent images. The ROI was analyzed in the frequency domain using conventional SFA methods. Separate linear mixed effects models were run for each extracted parameter. RESULTS PSFR was affected by modifications in focus location only (p < 0.001) with differences noted between all locations. Mmax% was influenced by the interaction of gain and focus location (p < 0.001) but was also independently affected by increasing window depth (p < 0.001). Both Mmax and Sum parameters were sensitive to small changes in machine settings with the interaction of focus location and window depth (p < 0.001 for both parameters) as well as window depth and gain (p < 0.001 for both) influencing the extracted values. CONCLUSIONS Frequently adjusted imaging settings influence some SFA statistics. PSFR and Mmax% appear to be most robust to small changes in image settings, making them best suited for comparison across individuals and between studies, which is appealing for the clinical utility of the SFA method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott K Crawford
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1300 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Stephanie A Kliethermes
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Badger Athletic Performance Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Bryan C Heiderscheit
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Badger Athletic Performance Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Greg R Bashford
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
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Kwon DR, Cho SC. Efficacy of Intensive Inpatient Therapy in Infants with Congenital Muscular Torticollis Involving the Entire Sternocleidomastoid Muscle. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1088. [PMID: 37371319 DOI: 10.3390/children10061088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy and frequency of physiotherapy in the prognosis of congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) that involves the entire sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle continues to be unclear. This study investigated the therapeutic effect of intensive inpatient therapy given to infants with CMT that involves the whole SCM using clinical measurements and ultrasound (US). This study included 54 infants (27 boys and 27 girls; mean corrected age of 18.57 days) evaluated for CMT at our outpatient clinic from January 2014 to May 2021. The included patients were divided into three groups (groups 1, 2, and 3). Patients in group 1 underwent outpatient treatment 12 times. Patients in groups 2 and 3 underwent therapeutic exercise followed by US diathermy with microcurrent twice daily for 1 or 2 weeks, respectively. Passive range of motion of the cervical rotation (PCRROM) and SCM thickness were evaluated pre- and post-treatment. Among the three groups, the demographic data at baseline were not significantly different, SCM thickness and PCRROM were significantly decreased/increased at post-treatment compared to pre-treatment (p < 0.05), mean PCRROM change was significantly greater in group 3 (p < 0.05), and mean SCM thickness reduction between pre-treatment and 3 months post-treatment was significantly greater in groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.05). Therefore, intensive inpatient therapeutic exercise and US diathermy with microcurrent may enhance the prognosis of CMT involving the entire SCM muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Rak Kwon
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Cheol Cho
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
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Piponnier E, Ishikawa M, Kunimasa Y, Sano K, Jagot K, Boisseau N, Kurihara T, Martin V. Quantification of Extramyocellular Lipids and Intramuscular Fat from Muscle Echo Intensity in Lower Limb Muscles: A Comparison of Four Ultrasound Devices against Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23115282. [PMID: 37300012 DOI: 10.3390/s23115282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare different ultrasound devices with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to quantify muscle lipid content from echo intensity (EI). Four different ultrasound devices were used to measure muscle EI and subcutaneous fat thickness in four lower-limb muscles. Intramuscular fat (IMF), intramyocellular (IMCL) and extramyocellular lipids (EMCL) were measured using MRS. Linear regression was used to compare raw and subcutaneous fat thickness-corrected EI values to IMCL, EMCL and IMF. IMCL had a poor correlation with muscle EI (r = 0.17-0.32, NS), while EMCL (r = 0.41-0.84, p < 0.05-p < 0.001) and IMF (r = 0.49-0.84, p < 0.01-p < 0.001) had moderate to strong correlation with raw EI. All relationships were improved when considering the effect of subcutaneous fat thickness on muscle EI measurements. The slopes of the relationships were similar across devices, but there were some differences in the y-intercepts when raw EI values were used. These differences disappeared when subcutaneous fat thickness-corrected EI values were considered, allowing for the creation of generic prediction equations (r = 0.41-0.68, p < 0.001). These equations can be used to quantify IMF and EMCL within lower limb muscles from corrected-EI values in non-obese subjects, regardless of the ultrasound device used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Piponnier
- Université Clermont Auvergne, AME2P, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Laboratory of Human Motricity, Heath and Sport Expertise (LAMHESS), UPR 6312, University Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Masaki Ishikawa
- Graduate School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, Osaka 590-0496, Japan
| | - Yoko Kunimasa
- Graduate School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, Osaka 590-0496, Japan
- Faculty of Education, Niigata University, Niigata 950-2181, Japan
| | - Kanae Sano
- Graduate School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, Osaka 590-0496, Japan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Morinomiya University of Medical Sciences, Osaka 559-8611, Japan
| | - Kévin Jagot
- Université Clermont Auvergne, AME2P, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Nathalie Boisseau
- Université Clermont Auvergne, AME2P, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Toshiyuki Kurihara
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu 525-8577, Japan
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kokushikan University, Tokyo 154-8515, Japan
| | - Vincent Martin
- Université Clermont Auvergne, AME2P, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), F-75005 Paris, France
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Ashir A, Jerban S, Barrère V, Wu Y, Shah SB, Andre MP, Chang EY. Skeletal Muscle Assessment Using Quantitative Ultrasound: A Narrative Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:4763. [PMID: 37430678 PMCID: PMC10222479 DOI: 10.3390/s23104763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) is an important imaging tool for skeletal muscle analysis. The advantages of US include point-of-care access, real-time imaging, cost-effectiveness, and absence of ionizing radiation. However, US can be highly dependent on the operator and/or US system, and a portion of the potentially useful information carried by raw sonographic data is discarded in image formation for routine qualitative US. Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) methods provide analysis of the raw or post-processed data, revealing additional information about normal tissue structure and disease status. There are four QUS categories that can be used on muscle and are important to review. First, quantitative data derived from B-mode images can help determine the macrostructural anatomy and microstructural morphology of muscle tissues. Second, US elastography can provide information about muscle elasticity or stiffness through strain elastography or shear wave elastography (SWE). Strain elastography measures the induced tissue strain caused either by internal or external compression by tracking tissue displacement with detectable speckle in B-mode images of the examined tissue. SWE measures the speed of induced shear waves traveling through the tissue to estimate the tissue elasticity. These shear waves may be produced using external mechanical vibrations or internal "push pulse" ultrasound stimuli. Third, raw radiofrequency signal analyses provide estimates of fundamental tissue parameters, such as the speed of sound, attenuation coefficient, and backscatter coefficient, which correspond to information about muscle tissue microstructure and composition. Lastly, envelope statistical analyses apply various probability distributions to estimate the number density of scatterers and quantify coherent to incoherent signals, thus providing information about microstructural properties of muscle tissue. This review will examine these QUS techniques, published results on QUS evaluation of skeletal muscles, and the strengths and limitations of QUS in skeletal muscle analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aria Ashir
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA; (S.J.); (M.P.A.); (E.Y.C.)
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA; (V.B.); (S.B.S.)
- Department of Radiology, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA
| | - Saeed Jerban
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA; (S.J.); (M.P.A.); (E.Y.C.)
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA; (V.B.); (S.B.S.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Victor Barrère
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA; (V.B.); (S.B.S.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Yuanshan Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sameer B. Shah
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA; (V.B.); (S.B.S.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Michael P. Andre
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA; (S.J.); (M.P.A.); (E.Y.C.)
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA; (V.B.); (S.B.S.)
| | - Eric Y. Chang
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA; (S.J.); (M.P.A.); (E.Y.C.)
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA; (V.B.); (S.B.S.)
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Zubair AS, Salam S, Dimachkie MM, Machado PM, Roy B. Imaging biomarkers in the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1146015. [PMID: 37181575 PMCID: PMC10166883 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1146015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are a group of acquired muscle diseases with muscle inflammation, weakness, and other extra-muscular manifestations. IIMs can significantly impact the quality of life, and management of IIMs often requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Imaging biomarkers have become an integral part of the management of IIMs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), muscle ultrasound, electrical impedance myography (EIM), and positron emission tomography (PET) are the most widely used imaging technologies in IIMs. They can help make the diagnosis and assess the burden of muscle damage and treatment response. MRI is the most widely used imaging biomarker of IIMs and can assess a large volume of muscle tissue but is limited by availability and cost. Muscle ultrasound and EIM are easy to administer and can even be performed in the clinical setting, but they need further validation. These technologies may complement muscle strength testing and laboratory studies and provide an objective assessment of muscle health in IIMs. Furthermore, this is a rapidly progressing field, and new advances are going to equip care providers with a better objective assessment of IIMS and eventually improve patient management. This review discusses the current state and future direction of imaging biomarkers in IIMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel S. Zubair
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Sharfaraz Salam
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mazen M. Dimachkie
- Department of Neurology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Pedro M. Machado
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bhaskar Roy
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Preclinical Ultrasonography in Rodent Models of Neuromuscular Disorders: The State of the Art for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054976. [PMID: 36902405 PMCID: PMC10003358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasonography is a safe, non-invasive imaging technique used in several fields of medicine, offering the possibility to longitudinally monitor disease progression and treatment efficacy over time. This is particularly useful when a close follow-up is required, or in patients with pacemakers (not suitable for magnetic resonance imaging). By virtue of these advantages, ultrasonography is commonly used to detect multiple skeletal muscle structural and functional parameters in sports medicine, as well as in neuromuscular disorders, e.g., myotonic dystrophy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The recent development of high-resolution ultrasound devices allowed the use of this technique in preclinical settings, particularly for echocardiographic assessments that make use of specific guidelines, currently lacking for skeletal muscle measurements. In this review, we describe the state of the art for ultrasound skeletal muscle applications in preclinical studies conducted in small rodents, aiming to provide the scientific community with necessary information to support an independent validation of these procedures for the achievement of standard protocols and reference values useful in translational research on neuromuscular disorders.
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Quarato CMI, Lacedonia D, Salvemini M, Tuccari G, Mastrodonato G, Villani R, Fiore LA, Scioscia G, Mirijello A, Saponara A, Sperandeo M. A Review on Biological Effects of Ultrasounds: Key Messages for Clinicians. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:855. [PMID: 36899998 PMCID: PMC10001275 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) is acoustic energy that interacts with human tissues, thus, producing bioeffects that may be hazardous, especially in sensitive organs (i.e., brain, eye, heart, lung, and digestive tract) and embryos/fetuses. Two basic mechanisms of US interaction with biological systems have been identified: thermal and non-thermal. As a result, thermal and mechanical indexes have been developed to provide a means of assessing the potential for biological effects from exposure to diagnostic US. The main aims of this paper were to describe the models and assumptions used to estimate the "safety" of acoustic outputs and indices and to summarize the current state of knowledge about US-induced effects on living systems deriving from in vitro models and in vivo experiments on animals. This review work has made it possible to highlight the limits associated with the use of the estimated safety values of thermal and mechanical indices relating above all to the use of new US technologies, such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) shear wave elastography (SWE). US for diagnostic and research purposes has been officially declared safe, and no harmful biological effects in humans have yet been demonstrated with new imaging modalities; however, physicians should be adequately informed on the potential risks of biological effects. US exposure, according to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, should be as low as reasonably possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Maria Irene Quarato
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Donato Lacedonia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Michela Salvemini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Giulia Tuccari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Geriatric, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Grazia Mastrodonato
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Institute of Sports Medicine, University “Aldo Moro” of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Rosanna Villani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Internal Medicine, Liver Unit, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Lucia Angela Fiore
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Geriatric, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Giulia Scioscia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Policlinico Universitario “Riuniti” di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonio Mirijello
- Department of Internal of Medicine, IRCCS Fondazione Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | | | - Marco Sperandeo
- Unit of Interventional and Diagnostic Ultrasound of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Fondazione Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Danko V, Jüngert J, Schuessler S, Buehler A, Klett D, Federle A, Roos A, Lochmüller H, Neurath MF, Woelfle J, Trollmann R, Waldner MJ, Knieling F, Regensburger AP, Wagner AL. Hybrid reflected-ultrasound computed tomography versus B-mode-ultrasound for muscle scoring in spinal muscular atrophy. J Neuroimaging 2023; 33:393-403. [PMID: 36627228 DOI: 10.1111/jon.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Novel light- and sound-based technologies like multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT) with co-registered reflected-ultrasound computed tomography (RUCT) could add additional value to conventional ultrasound (US) for disease phenotyping in pediatric spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The aim of this study was to investigate the quality of RUCT compared to US for qualitative and quantitative assessment of imaging neuromuscular disorders. METHODS Subanalyzing the MSOT SMA study, 288 RUCT and 276 US images from 10 SMA patients (mean age 9.0 ± 3.7) and 10 gender- and age-matched healthy volunteers (HV; mean age 8.7 ± 4.3) were analyzed for quantitative (grayscale levels [GSLs]) and qualitative (echogenicity, distribution pattern, Heckmatt scale, and muscle texture) muscle changes. RUCT and US measures were further correlated with clinical standard motor outcomes. RESULTS Quantitative agreement using GSLs revealed significantly higher GSLs in muscles of SMA patients compared to healthy muscles in both techniques (US mean GSL [SD] SMA vs. HV: 110.70 [27.8] vs. 68.85 [19.2], p < .0001; RUCT mean GSL [SD] SMA vs. HV: 91.81 [21.8] vs. 59.86 [8.2], p < .0001) with good correlation with motor outcome tests, respectively. Qualitative agreement between methods for muscle composition was excellent for differentiation of pathological versus healthy muscles, echogenicity, and distribution pattern, moderate for Heckmatt scale, and poor for muscle texture. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that RUCT may allow the assessment of basic qualitative and quantitative measures for muscular diseases with comparable results to conventional US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Danko
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Pediatric Experimental and Translational Imaging Laboratory (PETI-Lab), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg Jüngert
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Schuessler
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Adrian Buehler
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Pediatric Experimental and Translational Imaging Laboratory (PETI-Lab), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Daniel Klett
- Medical Department 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,German Center Immunotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna Federle
- Medical Department 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,German Center Immunotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Roos
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Developmental Neurology and Social Pediatrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital; and Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Neurology, Heimer Institute for Muscle Research, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital; and Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Markus F Neurath
- Medical Department 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,German Center Immunotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Joachim Woelfle
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maximilian J Waldner
- Medical Department 1, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,German Center Immunotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ferdinand Knieling
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Pediatric Experimental and Translational Imaging Laboratory (PETI-Lab), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Adrian P Regensburger
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Pediatric Experimental and Translational Imaging Laboratory (PETI-Lab), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexandra L Wagner
- Pediatric Experimental and Translational Imaging Laboratory (PETI-Lab), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Imamura M, Uchyiama SST, Naves GS, Abicalaf CARP, Mirisola AR, dos Santos ACA, Battistella LR. Ultrasonographic findings in long COVID: A cross-sectional study of 312 patients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1051389. [PMID: 36698837 PMCID: PMC9869060 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1051389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fatigue and muscle weakness are common complaints in COVID-19 survivors. However, little is still known about the skeletal muscle qualitative and quantitative characteristics after hospitalization due to moderate and severe COVID-19. Objectives To assess rectus femoris and vastus intermedius muscle thickness (MT) and rectus femoris echo intensity (EI) and to establish its association with demographic, clinical, functional, and inflammatory parameters in long COVID patients after hospital discharge. Methods Cross-sectional study with 312 COVID-19 patients (53.53% male; age: 54.59 ± 13.50 years), with a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Patients were assessed 3-11 months after hospital discharge. We evaluated MT of the right rectus femoris and vastus intermedius and EI of the right rectus femoris using a portable ultrasound system, 6-13 MHz, broadband linear transducer. We corrected EI using the subcutaneous fat thickness. Ultrasonographic parameters were tested in association with demographic (sex and age); functional (Handgrip strength measurement, Timed Up and Go, 1 min Sit-to-Stand test, EuroQoL-5 Dimensions-5 Levels, World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0), Post-COVID-19 Functional Status, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT), Medical Research Council (MRC) sum score, Borg Dyspnea Scale, MRC Dyspnea score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Insomnia Severity Index, Functional Independence Measurement (FIM), and Functional Oral Intake Scale); clinical (length of hospital stay, intubation, and presence of comorbidities such as systemic hypertension, diabetes, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma), and inflammatory data assessed by the C-reactive protein and D-dimer serum concentrations. Results Rectus femoris MT was associated with age, handgrip strength, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and subcutaneous fat thickness (r2 = 27.51%; p < 0.0001). Vastus intermedius MT was associated with age, pain intensity, handgrip strength, Epworth Sleepiness scale, FIM, and time since hospital discharge (r2 = 21.12%; p < 0.0001). Rectus femoris EI was significantly associated with the male sex, TUG, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and C-Reactive Protein levels (r2 = 44.39%; p < 0.0001). Mean MT of rectus femoris and vastus intermedius are significantly different (p < 0.001). Conclusion After hospital discharge, long COVID patients present qualitative and quantitative skeletal muscle characteristics associated with a combination of demographic, clinical, and functional parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Imamura
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,*Correspondence: Marta Imamura,
| | - Sabrina Saemy Tome Uchyiama
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Souza Naves
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Andréia Rabay Pimentel Abicalaf
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aline Rossetti Mirisola
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Artur César Aquino dos Santos
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Linamara Rizzo Battistella
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Bioética, Medicina do Trabalho e Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Instituto de Medicina Física e Reabilitação, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Planinc D, Muhamood N, Cabassi C, Iniesta R, Shaw CE, Hodson-Tole E, Bashford J. Fasciculation electromechanical latency is prolonged in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2023; 145:71-80. [PMID: 36442378 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), motor neurons become hyperexcitable and spontaneously discharge electrical impulses causing fasciculations. These can be detected by two noninvasive methods: high-density surface electromyography (HDSEMG) and muscle ultrasonography (MUS). We combined these methods simultaneously to explore the electromechanical properties of fasciculations, seeking a novel biomarker of disease. METHODS Twelve ALS patients and thirteen healthy participants each provided up to 24 minutes of recordings from the right biceps brachii (BB) and gastrocnemius medialis (GM). Two automated algorithms (Surface Potential Quantification Engine and a Gaussian mixture model) were applied to HDSEMG and MUS data to identify correlated electromechanical fasciculation events. RESULTS We identified 4,197 correlated electromechanical fasciculation events. HDSEMG reliably detected electromechanical events up to 30 mm below the skin surface with an inverse correlation between amplitude and depth in ALS muscles. Compared to Healthy-GM muscles (mean = 79.8 ms), electromechanical latency was prolonged in ALS-GM (mean = 108.8 ms; p = 0.0458) and ALS-BB (mean = 112.0 ms; p = 0.0128) muscles. Electromechanical latency did not correlate with disease duration, symptom burden, sum muscle power score or fasciculation frequency. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged fasciculation electromechanical latency indicates impairment of the excitation-contraction coupling mechanism, warranting further exploration as a potential novel biomarker of disease in ALS. SIGNIFICANCE This study points to an electromechanical defect within the muscles of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Planinc
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - N Muhamood
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - C Cabassi
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - R Iniesta
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - C E Shaw
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - E Hodson-Tole
- Musculoskeletal Sciences and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Institute of Sport, Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
| | - J Bashford
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/@SPiQEneurology
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Yilmaz R, Wolke R, Puls N, Sorgun MH, Deuschl G, Berg D, Margraf NG. Characterizing Camptocormia in Parkinson's Disease Using Muscle Ultrasonography. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2023; 13:819-827. [PMID: 37334619 PMCID: PMC10473098 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-230037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Camptocormia (CC) is the forward-bending of the spine of more than 30 degrees that can be found in Parkinson's disease (PD) as a disabling complication. Detection of changes in paraspinal lumbar musculature in CC is of value for choosing treatment strategies. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether these changes can be detected using muscle ultrasonography (mUSG). METHODS Age and sex-matched groups comprised 17 PD patients with CC (seven acute, PD-aCC; 10 chronic PD-cCC), 19 PD patients with no CC, and 18 healthy controls (HC). Lumbar paravertebral muscles (LPM) on both sides were assessed using mUSG by two different raters blinded to the group assignment. Groups were compared with regard to the linear measurements of the muscle thickness as well as semi-quantitative and quantitative (grayscale) analyses of muscle echogenicity using a univariate general linear model. RESULTS All assessments showed substantial interrater reliability. The PD-cCC group had significantly thinner LPM compared to groups with no CC (PD and HC). Groups of PD-aCC and PD-cCC differed from the groups of no CC in quantitative and semi-quantitative analyses of LPM echogenicity, respectively. CONCLUSION Assessment of LPM in PD patients with CC can be reliably performed using mUSG. Also, mUSG may be used as a screening tool to detect CC-related changes in thickness and echogenicity of the LPM in patients with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rezzak Yilmaz
- Department of Neurology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Robin Wolke
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Nina Puls
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Mine Hayriye Sorgun
- Department of Neurology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Günther Deuschl
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Daniela Berg
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Nils G. Margraf
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
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Younger DS. Childhood muscular dystrophies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 195:461-496. [PMID: 37562882 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98818-6.00024-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Infancy- and childhood-onset muscular dystrophies are associated with a characteristic distribution and progression of motor dysfunction. The underlying causes of progressive childhood muscular dystrophies are heterogeneous involving diverse genetic pathways and genes that encode proteins of the plasma membrane, extracellular matrix, sarcomere, and nuclear membrane components. The prototypical clinicopathological features in an affected child may be adequate to fully distinguish it from other likely diagnoses based on four common features: (1) weakness and wasting of pelvic-femoral and scapular muscles with involvement of heart muscle; (2) elevation of serum muscle enzymes in particular serum creatine kinase; (3) necrosis and regeneration of myofibers; and (4) molecular neurogenetic assessment particularly utilizing next-generation sequencing of the genome of the likeliest candidates genes in an index case or family proband. A number of different animal models of therapeutic strategies have been developed for gene transfer therapy, but so far these techniques have not yet entered clinical practice. Treatment remains for the most part symptomatic with the goal of ameliorating locomotor and cardiorespiratory manifestations of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Younger
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Neuroscience, CUNY School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine and Neurology, White Plains Hospital, White Plains, NY, United States.
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Hannaford A, Vucic S, van Alfen N, Simon NG. Muscle ultrasound in hereditary muscle disease. Neuromuscul Disord 2022; 32:851-863. [PMID: 36323605 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2022.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In this review we summarise the key techniques of muscle ultrasound as they apply to hereditary muscle disease. We review the diagnostic utility of muscle ultrasound including its role in guiding electromyography and muscle biopsy sampling. We summarize the different patterns of sonographic muscle involvement in the major categories of genetic muscle disorders and discuss the limitations of the technique. We hope to encourage others to adopt ultrasound in their care for patients with hereditary muscle diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Hannaford
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nens van Alfen
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Neil G Simon
- Northern Beaches Clinical School, Macquarie University, Suite 6a, 105 Frenchs Forest Rd W, Frenchs Forest, Sydney, NSW 2086, Australia.
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Zhang X, Ely G, Shin B, Anthony BW. Multi-Manipulator Robotic System for Ultrasound Tomography: Design, Calibration, and Image Results. J Med Device 2022. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4055655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In this article, we present the design, validation, and imaging capabilities of a MEchanically Discretized Ultrasound Scanning Apparatus (MEDUSA) that supports flexible development of UST algorithms for complex tissue structures. Ultrasound tomography (UST) in the recent decade has shown promising results in quantitative soft-tissue imaging for clinical breast cancer diagnostics. There is growing interest in applying tomographic techniques to image broader tissue structures that include bone, where imaging is significantly more challenging due to strong impedance mismatches and complex wave propagation within the region. Changes in data acquisition strategy, algorithms, and system design are necessary to enable quantitative imaging of soft-tissue with bone inclusions. The 36 degree of freedom MEDUSA system allows free space positioning of acoustic transducers around an imaging target and enables investigation of imaging strategies not available in other UST systems. We present the mechanical design, parameter calibration, and tomographic imaging results using MEDUSA. Mono/Bi-static imaging and full-waveform inversion (FWI) results on real targets are presented and validates system performance capabilities for broader UST algorithm development for more complex tissue structures
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Gregory Ely
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Bonghun Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Brian W. Anthony
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
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42
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Yang X, Li P, Lei J, Feng Y, Tang L, Guo J. Integrated Application of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound in Diagnosis and Treatment of Atrophied Skeletal Muscle Induced in Tail-Suspended Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10369. [PMID: 36142280 PMCID: PMC9498990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term exposure to microgravity leads to muscle atrophy, which is primarily characterized by a loss of muscle mass and strength and reduces one′s functional capability. A weightlessness-induced muscle atrophy model was established using the tail suspension test to evaluate the intervention or therapeutic effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on muscle atrophy. The rats were divided into five groups at random: the model group (B), the normal control group (NC), the sham-ultrasound control group (SUC), the LIPUS of 50 mW/cm2 radiation group (50 UR), and the LIPUS of 150 mW/cm2 radiation group (150 UR). Body weight, gastrocnemius weight, muscle force, and B-ultrasound images were used to evaluate muscle atrophy status. Results showed that the body weight, gastrocnemius weight, and image entropy of the tail suspension group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.01), confirming the presence of muscle atrophy. Although the results show that the muscle force and two weights of the rats stimulated by LIPUS are still much smaller than those of the NC group, they are significantly different from those of the pure tail suspension B group (p < 0.01). On day 14, the gastrocnemius forces of the rats exposed to 50 mW/cm2 and 150 mW/cm2 LIPUS were 150% and 165% of those in the B group. The gastrocnemius weights were both 135% of those in the B group. This suggests that ultrasound can, to a certain extent, prevent muscular atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuebing Yang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ultrasonics, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China
| | - Pan Li
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ultrasonics, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China
| | - Jiying Lei
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ultrasonics, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China
- Junior Middle Department, Shanxi Modern Bilingual School, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Yichen Feng
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ultrasonics, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China
| | - Liang Tang
- Institute of Sports Biology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China
| | - Jianzhong Guo
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ultrasonics, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China
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Goryachev I, Tresansky AP, Ely GT, Chrzanowski SM, Nagy JA, Rutkove SB, Anthony BW. Comparison of Quantitative Ultrasound Methods to Classify Dystrophic and Obese Models of Skeletal Muscle. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2022; 48:1918-1932. [PMID: 35811236 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we compared multiple quantitative ultrasound metrics for the purpose of differentiating muscle in 20 healthy, 10 dystrophic and 10 obese mice. High-frequency ultrasound scans were acquired on dystrophic (D2-mdx), obese (db/db) and control mouse hindlimbs. A total of 248 image features were extracted from each scan, using brightness-mode statistics, Canny edge detection metrics, Haralick features, envelope statistics and radiofrequency statistics. Naïve Bayes and other classifiers were trained on single and pairs of features. The a parameter from the Homodyned K distribution at 40 MHz achieved the best univariate classification (accuracy = 85.3%). Maximum classification accuracy of 97.7% was achieved using a logistic regression classifier on the feature pair of a2 (K distribution) at 30 MHz and brightness-mode variance at 40MHz. Dystrophic and obese mice have muscle with distinct acoustic properties and can be classified to a high level of accuracy using a combination of multiple features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Goryachev
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anne Pigula Tresansky
- Harvard-MIT Program in Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gregory Tsiang Ely
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen M Chrzanowski
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Janice A Nagy
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Seward B Rutkove
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brian W Anthony
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
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Elleuch F, Elleuch W, Mohameden A, Harbi H, Ghroubi S, Elleuch H. Flexor Carpi Radialis Muscle: Anatomic Features and Electromyography Technique Under Ultrasound Control. Cureus 2022; 14:e27936. [PMID: 36120280 PMCID: PMC9464466 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Sutaria TV, Chaudhari RK, Sutaria PT. Ultrasonographic diagnosis of adhesions, quantification of uterine wall and managerial perspectives of uterine torsion in buffaloes. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:1505-1519. [PMID: 35947504 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to diagnose uterine adhesion using ultrasonography to decide the treatment approach for better survival of buffaloes suffering from uterine torsion. The peculiar visceral slide against the other abdominal organs induced by breathing was considered an absence of uterine adhesion, while the total absence of visceral slide was considered the presence of uterine adhesions on ultrasonographic examination. The 59 Mehsana buffaloes suffering from uterine torsion were divided into two groups based on the presence (Group I; n=27) or absence (group II; n=32) of adhesions. The mean pixel values (MPV) and thickness of uterine wall were also quantified in both the groups. In group I, sever type adhesions (n=16/27) were directly subjected to cesarean section (CS), while fibrinous adhesions (n=11/27) were subject to rolling by Sharma's modified Schaffer's method, and if rolling failed were further, subjected to CS and adhesions were confirm during CS. In Group II, 28 buffaloes were subjected to rolling by Sharma's modified Schaffer's method and 4 buffaloes were directly subjected to CS because of longer duration of illness (≥3 days), higher degree (≥180°), and previous field handling. The incidence of adhesions was 45.76 per cent (27/59) in buffaloes with uterine torsion. The degenerative changes such as oedematous (hyperedema - hypoechoic with anechoic trabeculae) or thin (homogenous hypoechoic), sloughing of serosa, and wall separation were observed in the uterine wall. The significantly thinner uterine wall (P=0.017) and higher MPV (P=0.001) were evident in group I than group II. The weak negative non-significant correlation between uterine wall thickness and MPV was observed in group I (r = -0.250, P = 0.147) and group II (r = -0.235, P = 0.089). The dam survival rate was 48.15 per cent (13/27) in group I and 81.25 % (26/32) in group II. There was a significant (P=0.04) association between the treatment approach and dam survival. Ultrasonography has synergistic diagnostic value for uterine adhesions by evaluating uterine surfaces beyond the reach of obstetricians during a manual clinical examination. Thereby avoiding futile efforts to relieve uterine torsion by rolling might help to improve dam survival by planning a better obstetrical maneuver to salvage buffaloes suffering from uterine torsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- T V Sutaria
- Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science & A.H., Kamdhenu University, Gujarat, India
| | - Ravjibhai K Chaudhari
- Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science & A.H., Kamdhenu University, Gujarat, India
| | - Prajwalita T Sutaria
- Department of Surgery & Radiology, College of Veterinary Science & A.H., Kamdhenu University, Gujarat, India
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Alabdali LAS, Winkens B, Dinant GJ, van Alfen N, Ottenheijm RPG. Shoulder muscle changes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who have a painful shoulder: a quantitative muscle ultrasound study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:674. [PMID: 35836153 PMCID: PMC9281102 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05627-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is assumed that in patients with diabetic neuropathy, muscle denervation can result in shoulder disorders. Muscle denervation will lead to changes in muscle architecture, which can be assessed by quantitative muscle ultrasound (QMUS). The aim was to investigate whether increased muscle echogenicity, as a sign of neuropathy, is more often present in patients with shoulder pain who have type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than in those without. Methods Sixty-six patients with T2DM and 23 patients without diabetes mellitus (DM) having shoulder pain were included. Quantitative muscle ultrasound images were obtained bilaterally from the biceps brachii, deltoid, and supra- and infraspinatus muscles. The mean echogenicity (muscle ultrasound grey value) was transformed into z-scores and compared to reference values obtained from 50 healthy participants. Associations between muscle echogenicity and clinical variables were explored. Results In painful shoulders of both patients with T2DM and patients without DM, mean echogenicity z-scores of all muscles were significantly increased compared to healthy controls. No significant differences in echogenicity between patients with T2DM and those without DM were found. In patients with T2DM, a distal symmetric polyneuropathy was significantly associated with increased echogenicity of all muscles except the infraspinatus muscle. Conclusions These findings indicate that patients with painful shoulders, irrespective of having T2DM, seem to have abnormal shoulder muscles. Future studies are needed to elucidate whether neuropathy or other conditions lead to these muscle changes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05627-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Login Ahmed S Alabdali
- Dept. of Family Medicine, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,Ministry of Education, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bjorn Winkens
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Geert-Jan Dinant
- Dept. of Family Medicine, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nens van Alfen
- Dept. of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ramon P G Ottenheijm
- Dept. of Family Medicine, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Automatic Extraction of Muscle Parameters with Attention UNet in Ultrasonography. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22145230. [PMID: 35890909 PMCID: PMC9324543 DOI: 10.3390/s22145230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Automatically delineating the deep and superficial aponeurosis of the skeletal muscles from ultrasound images is important in many aspects of the clinical routine. In particular, finding muscle parameters, such as thickness, fascicle length or pennation angle, is a time-consuming clinical task requiring both human labour and specialised knowledge. In this study, a multi-step solution for automating these tasks is presented. A process to effortlessly extract the aponeurosis for automatically measuring the muscle thickness has been introduced as a first step. This process consists mainly of three parts. In the first part, the Attention UNet has been incorporated to automatically delineate the boundaries of the studied muscles. Afterwards, a specialised post-processing algorithm was utilised to improve (and correct) the segmentation results. Lastly, the calculation of the muscle thickness was performed. The proposed method has achieved similar to a human-level performance. In particular, the overall discrepancy between the automatic and the manual muscle thickness measurements was equal to 0.4 mm, a significant result that demonstrates the feasibility of automating this task. In the second step of the proposed methodology, the fascicle’s length and pennation angle are extracted through an unsupervised pipeline. Initially, filtering is applied to the ultrasound images to further distinguish the tissues from the other muscle structures. Later, the well-known K-Means algorithm is used to isolate them successfully. As the last step, the dominant angle of the segmented muscle tissues is reported and compared with manual measurements. The proposed pipeline is showing very promising results in the evaluated dataset. Specifically, in the calculation of the pennation angle, the overall discrepancy between the automatic and the manual measurements was less than 2.22° (degrees), once more comparable with the human-level performance. Finally, regarding the fascicle length measurements, the results were divided based on the muscle properties. In the muscles where a large portion (or all) of the fascicles are located between the upper and lower aponeuroses, the proposed pipeline exhibits superb performance; otherwise, overall accuracy deteriorates due to errors caused by the trigonometric approximations needed for the length calculation.
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Diagnostic yield of multi-gene panel for muscular dystrophies and other hereditary myopathies. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:4473-4481. [PMID: 35175440 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05934-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genetic testing is being considered the first-step in the investigation of hereditary myopathies. However, the performance of the different testing approaches is little known. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the diagnostic yield of a next-generation sequencing panel comprising 39 genes as the first-tier test for genetic myopathies diagnosis and to characterize clinical and molecular findings of families from southern Brazil. Fifty-one consecutive index cases with clinical suspicion of genetic myopathies were recruited from October 2014 to March 2018 in a cross-sectional study. The overall diagnostic yield of the next-generation sequencing panel was 52.9%, increasing to 60.8% when including cases with candidate variants. Multi-gene panel solved the diagnosis of 12/25 (48%) probands with limb-girdle muscular dystrophies, of 7/14 (50%) with congenital muscular diseases, and of 7/10 (70%) with muscular dystrophy with prominent joint contractures. The most frequent diagnosis for limb-girdle muscular dystrophies were LGMD2A/LGMD-R1-calpain3-related and LGMD2B/LGMD-R2-dysferlin-related; for congenital muscular diseases, RYR1-related-disorders; and for muscular dystrophy with prominent joint contractures, Emery-Dreifuss-muscular-dystrophy-type-1 and COL6A1-related-disorders. In summary, the customized next-generation sequencing panel when applied in the initial investigation of genetic myopathies results in high diagnostic yield, likely reducing patient's diagnostic odyssey and providing important information for genetic counseling and participation in disease-specific clinical trials.
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Reproducibility and Accuracy of the Radiofrequency Echographic Multi-Spectrometry for Femoral Mineral Density Estimation and Discriminative Power of the Femoral Fragility Score in Patients with Primary and Disuse-Related Osteoporosis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133761. [PMID: 35807046 PMCID: PMC9267756 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the reproducibility and accuracy of Radiofrequency Echographic Multi-Spectrometry (REMS) for femoral BMD estimation and the reproducibility and discriminative power of the REMS-derived femoral fragility score. 175 patients with primary and disuse-related osteoporosis were recruited: one femoral Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scan and two femoral REMS scans were acquired. No significant test—retest differences were observed for all REMS-derived variables. The diagnostic concordance between DXA and REMS was 63% (Cohen’s kappa = 0.31) in patients with primary osteoporosis and 13% (Cohen’s kappa: −0.04) in patients with disuse-related osteoporosis. No significant difference was observed between REMS and DXA for either femoral neck BMD (mean difference between REMS and DXA: −0.015 g/cm2) or total femur BMD (mean difference: −0.004 g/cm2) in patients with primary osteoporosis. Significant differences between the two techniques were observed in patients with disuse-related osteoporosis (femoral neck BMD difference: 0.136 g/cm2; total femur BMD difference: 0.236 g/cm2). Statistically significant differences in the fragility score were obtained between the fractured and non-fractured patients for both populations. In conclusion, REMS showed excellent test-retest reproducibility, but the diagnostic concordance between DXA and REMS was between minimal and poor. Further studies are required to improve the REMS—derived estimation of femoral BMD.
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Albayda J, Demonceau G, Carlier PG. Muscle imaging in myositis: MRI, US, and PET. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2022; 36:101765. [PMID: 35760742 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2022.101765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Imaging is an important tool in the evaluation of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. It plays a role in diagnosis, assessment of disease activity and follow-up, and as a non-invasive biomarker. Among the different modalities, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound (US), and positron emission tomography (PET) may have the most clinical utility in myositis. MRI is currently the best modality to evaluate skeletal muscle and provides excellent characterization of muscle edema and fat replacement through the use of T1-weighted and T2-weighted fat suppressed/STIR sequences. Although MRI can be read qualitatively for the presence of abnormalities, a more quantitative approach using Dixon sequences and the generation of water T2 parametric maps would be preferable for follow-up. Newer protocols such as diffusion-weighted imaging, functional imaging measures, and spectroscopy may be of interest to provide further insights into myositis. Despite the advantages of MRI, image acquisition is relatively time-consuming, expensive, and not accessible to all patients. The use of US to evaluate skeletal muscle in myositis is gaining interest, especially in chronic disease, where fat replacement and fibrosis are detected readily by this modality. Although easily deployed at the bedside, it is heavily dependent on operator experience to recognize disease states. Further, systematic characterization of muscle edema by US is still needed. PET provides valuable information on muscle function at a cellular level. Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-PET) has been the most common application in myositis to detect pathologic uptake indicative of inflammation. The use of neurodegenerative markers is now also being utilized for inclusion body myositis. These different modalities may prove to be complementary methods for myositis evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemima Albayda
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA.
| | | | - Pierre G Carlier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, DRF, Service Hospitalier Frederic Joliot, Orsay, France
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