1
|
Neuroimaging findings of inborn errors of metabolism: urea cycle disorders, aminoacidopathies, and organic acidopathies. Jpn J Radiol 2023:10.1007/s11604-023-01396-0. [PMID: 36729192 PMCID: PMC9893193 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-023-01396-0] [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: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Although there are many types of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) affecting the central nervous system, also referred to as neurometabolic disorders, individual cases are rare, and their diagnosis is often challenging. However, early diagnosis is mandatory to initiate therapy and prevent permanent long-term neurological impairment or death. The clinical course of IEMs is very diverse, with some diseases progressing to acute encephalopathy following infection or fasting while others lead to subacute or slowly progressive encephalopathy. The diagnosis of IEMs relies on biochemical and genetic tests, but neuroimaging studies also provide important clues to the correct diagnosis and enable the conditions to be distinguished from other, more common causes of encephalopathy, such as hypoxia-ischemia. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) is a powerful, non-invasive method of assessing neurological abnormalities at the microscopic level and can measure in vivo brain metabolites. The present review discusses neuroimaging findings, including those of 1H-MRS, of IEMs focusing on intoxication disorders such as urea cycle disorders, aminoacidopathies, and organic acidopathies, which can result in acute life-threatening metabolic decompensation or crisis.
Collapse
|
2
|
Serrallach BL, Orman G, Boltshauser E, Hackenberg A, Desai NK, Kralik SF, Huisman TAGM. Neuroimaging in cerebellar ataxia in childhood: A review. J Neuroimaging 2022; 32:825-851. [PMID: 35749078 DOI: 10.1111/jon.13017] [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: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ataxia is one of the most common pediatric movement disorders and can be caused by a large number of congenital and acquired diseases affecting the cerebellum or the vestibular or sensory system. It is mainly characterized by gait abnormalities, dysmetria, intention tremor, dysdiadochokinesia, dysarthria, and nystagmus. In young children, ataxia may manifest as the inability or refusal to walk. The diagnostic approach begins with a careful clinical history including the temporal evolution of ataxia and the inquiry of additional symptoms, is followed by a meticulous physical examination, and, depending on the results, is complemented by laboratory assays, electroencephalography, nerve conduction velocity, lumbar puncture, toxicology screening, genetic testing, and neuroimaging. Neuroimaging plays a pivotal role in either providing the final diagnosis, narrowing the differential diagnosis, or planning targeted further workup. In this review, we will focus on the most common form of ataxia in childhood, cerebellar ataxia (CA). We will discuss and summarize the neuroimaging findings of either the most common or the most important causes of CA in childhood or present causes of pediatric CA with pathognomonic findings on MRI. The various pediatric CAs will be categorized and presented according to (a) the cause of ataxia (acquired/disruptive vs. inherited/genetic) and (b) the temporal evolution of symptoms (acute/subacute, chronic, progressive, nonprogressive, and recurrent). In addition, several illustrative cases with their key imaging findings will be presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bettina L Serrallach
- Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gunes Orman
- Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eugen Boltshauser
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Annette Hackenberg
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nilesh K Desai
- Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Stephen F Kralik
- Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Thierry A G M Huisman
- Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chavan R, Kadam S, Bhalke A, Choudhary SL, Patil P. Evaluation of Neonatal Acute Metabolic Crisis in Maple Syrup Urine Disease with MR Diffusion and MR Spectroscopy: Case Series and Review of the Literature. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1726312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of acute metabolic crisis in maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) in neonates were reviewed. This case cohort study included six MSUD neonates imaged during acute metabolic decompensation. Specific diffusion imaging and proton spectroscopic findings were reviewed. All patients revealed extensive intramyelinic cytotoxic edema typically involving myelinated white matter structures. Brainstem, cerebellar white matter and peduncles, midbrain, posterior limbs of internal capsules, central portions of periventricular, and perirolandic white matter regions showed typical MSUD edema. Gray matter structures such as dentate nucleus and thalamus were involved in all patients. Involvement of other deep nuclei was also noted in a few patients. None of the patients showed involvement of the superficial cortex. Reduction in N-acetyl aspartate, a prominent lactate peak, and a peak representing methyl groups of amino acids were characteristic findings seen on intermediate short echo time MR spectroscopy. Our case series outlines the importance of diffusion and spectroscopy MR techniques in the diagnosis of acute neonatal MSUD metabolic crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajendra Chavan
- Anushka MRI & CT Scan Centre, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sandeep Kadam
- Department of Pediatrics, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Amit Bhalke
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sohan Lal Choudhary
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Pushpak Patil
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gropman AL, Anderson A. Novel imaging technologies for genetic diagnoses in the inborn errors of metabolism. JOURNAL OF TRANSLATIONAL GENETICS AND GENOMICS 2020; 4:429-445. [PMID: 35529470 PMCID: PMC9075742 DOI: 10.20517/jtgg.2020.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Many inborn errors of metabolism and genetic disorders affect the brain. The brain biochemistry may differ from that in the periphery and is not accessible by simple blood and urine sampling. Therefore, neuroimaging has proven to be a valuable tool to not only evaluate the brain structure, but also biochemistry, blood flow and function. Neuroimaging in patients with inborn errors of metabolism can include additional sequences in addition to T1 and T2-weighted imaging because in early stages, there may be no significant findings on the routine sequnces due to the lack of sensitivity or the evolution of abnormalities lags behind the ability of the imaging to detect it. In addition, findings on T1 and T2-weighted imaging of several inborn errors of metabolism may be non-specific and be seen in other non-genetic conditions. Therefore, additional neuroimaging modalities that have been employed including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy, functional MRI (fMRI), functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), or positron emission tomography (PET) imaging may further inform underlying changes in myelination, biochemistry, and functional connectivity. The use of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in certain disorders may add a level of specificity depending upon the metabolite levels that are abnormal, as well as provide information about the process of brain injury (i.e., white matter, gray matter, energy deficiency, toxic buildup or depletion of key metabolites). It is even more challenging to understand how genetic or metabolic disorders contribute to short and/or long term changes in cognition which represent the downstream effects of IEMs. In order to image “cognition” or the downstream effects of a metabolic disorder on domains of brain function, more advanced techniques are required to analyze underlying fiber tracts or alternatively, methods such as fMRI enable generation of brain activation maps after both task based and resting state conditions. DTI can be used to look at changes in white matter tracks. Each imaging modality can explore an important aspect of the anatomy, physiology or biochemisty of the central nervous system. Their properties, pros and cons are discussed in this article. These imaging modalities will be discussed in the context of several inborn errors of metabolism including Galactosemia, Phenylketonruia, Maple syrup urine disease, Methylmalonic acidemia, Niemann-Pick Disease, type C1, Krabbe Disease, Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, Sjogren Larsson syndrome, Pelizeaus-Merzbacher disease, Pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency, Nonketotic Hyperglycinemia and Fabry disease. Space constraints do not allow mention of all the disorders in which one of these modalities has been investigated, or where it would add value to diagnosis or disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Gropman
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Afrouz Anderson
- Department of Research, Focus Foundation, Crofton, MD 21035, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism, also known as inherited metabolic diseases, constitute an important group of conditions presenting with neurologic signs in newborns. They are individually rare but collectively common. Many are treatable through restoration of homeostasis of a disrupted metabolic pathway. Given their frequency and potential for treatment, the clinician should be aware of this group of conditions and learn to identify the typical manifestations of the different inborn errors of metabolism. In this review, we summarize the clinical, laboratory, electrophysiologic, and neuroimaging findings of the different inborn errors of metabolism that can present with florid neurologic signs and symptoms in the neonatal period.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adult
- Female
- Humans
- Infant, Newborn
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/diagnosis
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/diagnostic imaging
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/physiopathology
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/therapy
- Metabolism, Inborn Errors/diagnosis
- Metabolism, Inborn Errors/diagnostic imaging
- Metabolism, Inborn Errors/physiopathology
- Metabolism, Inborn Errors/therapy
- Neuroimaging
- Pregnancy
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos R Ferreira
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States; Rare Disease Institute, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Clara D M van Karnebeek
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Reddy N, Calloni SF, Vernon HJ, Boltshauser E, Huisman TAGM, Soares BP. Neuroimaging Findings of Organic Acidemias and Aminoacidopathies. Radiographics 2018; 38:912-931. [PMID: 29757724 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2018170042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Although individual cases of inherited metabolic disorders are rare, overall they account for a substantial number of disorders affecting the central nervous system. Organic acidemias and aminoacidopathies include a variety of inborn errors of metabolism that are caused by defects in the intermediary metabolic pathways of carbohydrates, amino acids, and fatty acid oxidation. These defects can lead to the abnormal accumulation of organic acids and amino acids in multiple organs, including the brain. Early diagnosis is mandatory to initiate therapy and prevent permanent long-term neurologic impairments or death. Neuroimaging findings can be nonspecific, and metabolism- and genetics-based laboratory investigations are needed to confirm the diagnosis. However, neuroimaging has a key role in guiding the diagnostic workup. The findings at conventional and advanced magnetic resonance imaging may suggest the correct diagnosis, help narrow the differential diagnosis, and consequently facilitate early initiation of targeted metabolism- and genetics-based laboratory investigations and treatment. Neuroimaging may be especially helpful for distinguishing organic acidemias and aminoacidopathies from other more common diseases with similar manifestations, such as hypoxic-ischemic injury and neonatal sepsis. Therefore, it is important that radiologists, neuroradiologists, pediatric neuroradiologists, and clinicians are familiar with the neuroimaging findings of organic acidemias and aminoacidopathies. ©RSNA, 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nihaal Reddy
- From the Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science (N.R., S.F.C., T.A.G.M.H., B.P.S.), and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics (H.J.V.), The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center Bldg, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Room 4174, 1800 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21287-0842; Università degli Studi di Milano, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Milan, Italy (S.F.C.); Department of Neurogenetics, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Md (H.J.V.); and Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.B.)
| | - Sonia F Calloni
- From the Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science (N.R., S.F.C., T.A.G.M.H., B.P.S.), and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics (H.J.V.), The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center Bldg, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Room 4174, 1800 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21287-0842; Università degli Studi di Milano, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Milan, Italy (S.F.C.); Department of Neurogenetics, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Md (H.J.V.); and Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.B.)
| | - Hilary J Vernon
- From the Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science (N.R., S.F.C., T.A.G.M.H., B.P.S.), and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics (H.J.V.), The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center Bldg, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Room 4174, 1800 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21287-0842; Università degli Studi di Milano, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Milan, Italy (S.F.C.); Department of Neurogenetics, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Md (H.J.V.); and Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.B.)
| | - Eugen Boltshauser
- From the Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science (N.R., S.F.C., T.A.G.M.H., B.P.S.), and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics (H.J.V.), The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center Bldg, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Room 4174, 1800 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21287-0842; Università degli Studi di Milano, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Milan, Italy (S.F.C.); Department of Neurogenetics, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Md (H.J.V.); and Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.B.)
| | - Thierry A G M Huisman
- From the Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science (N.R., S.F.C., T.A.G.M.H., B.P.S.), and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics (H.J.V.), The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center Bldg, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Room 4174, 1800 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21287-0842; Università degli Studi di Milano, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Milan, Italy (S.F.C.); Department of Neurogenetics, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Md (H.J.V.); and Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.B.)
| | - Bruno P Soares
- From the Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science (N.R., S.F.C., T.A.G.M.H., B.P.S.), and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics (H.J.V.), The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center Bldg, Sheikh Zayed Tower, Room 4174, 1800 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21287-0842; Università degli Studi di Milano, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Milan, Italy (S.F.C.); Department of Neurogenetics, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Md (H.J.V.); and Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland (E.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Enhancement and Intensity Inhomogeneity Correction of Diffusion-Weighted MR Images of Neonatal and Infantile Brain Using Dynamic Stochastic Resonance. J Med Biol Eng 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40846-017-0270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
8
|
Wu D, Chang L, Akazawa K, Oishi K, Skranes J, Ernst T, Oishi K. Mapping the critical gestational age at birth that alters brain development in preterm-born infants using multi-modal MRI. Neuroimage 2017; 149:33-43. [PMID: 28111189 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth adversely affects postnatal brain development. In order to investigate the critical gestational age at birth (GAB) that alters the developmental trajectory of gray and white matter structures in the brain, we investigated diffusion tensor and quantitative T2 mapping data in 43 term-born and 43 preterm-born infants. A novel multivariate linear model-the change point model, was applied to detect change points in fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, and T2 relaxation time. Change points captured the "critical" GAB value associated with a change in the linear relation between GAB and MRI measures. The analysis was performed in 126 regions across the whole brain using an atlas-based image quantification approach to investigate the spatial pattern of the critical GAB. Our results demonstrate that the critical GABs are region- and modality-specific, generally following a central-to-peripheral and bottom-to-top order of structural development. This study may offer unique insights into the postnatal neurological development associated with differential degrees of preterm birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Linda Chang
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Kentaro Akazawa
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kumiko Oishi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jon Skranes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Thomas Ernst
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Kenichi Oishi
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hou JW. Maple Syrup Urine Disease Complicated with Kyphoscoliosis and Myelopathy. Pediatr Neonatol 2016; 57:431-435. [PMID: 24486081 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2013.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is an autosomal recessive aminoacidopathy secondary to an enzyme defect in the catabolic pathway of the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs: leucine, isoleucine, and valine). Accumulation of their corresponding keto-acids leads to encephalopathy if not treated in time. A newborn male patient was suspected to have MSUD after tandem mass study when he presented symptoms and signs suggestive neonatal sepsis, anemia, and diarrhea. Food restriction of BCAAs was started; however, acrodermatitis enteropathica-like skin eruptions occurred at age 2 months. The skin rashes resolved after adding BCAAs and adjusting the infant formula. At age 7 months, he suffered from recurrent skin lesions, zinc deficiency, osteoporosis, and kyphosis of the thoracic spine with acute angulation over the T11-T12 level associated with spinal compression and myelopathy. After supplementation of zinc products and pamidronate, skin lesions and osteopenia improved gradually. Direct sequencing of the DBT gene showed a compound heterozygous mutation [4.7 kb deletion and c.650-651insT (L217F or L217fsX223)]. It is unusual that neurodegeneration still developed in this patient despite diet restriction. Additionally, brain and spinal magnetic resonance imaging, bone mineral density study, and monitoring of zinc status are suggested in MSUD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Woei Hou
- Department of Pediatrics, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Akazawa K, Chang L, Yamakawa R, Hayama S, Buchthal S, Alicata D, Andres T, Castillo D, Oishi K, Skranes J, Ernst T, Oishi K. Probabilistic maps of the white matter tracts with known associated functions on the neonatal brain atlas: Application to evaluate longitudinal developmental trajectories in term-born and preterm-born infants. Neuroimage 2015; 128:167-179. [PMID: 26712341 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2015.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been widely used to investigate the development of the neonatal and infant brain, and deviations related to various diseases or medical conditions like preterm birth. In this study, we created a probabilistic map of fiber pathways with known associated functions, on a published neonatal multimodal atlas. The pathways-of-interest include the superficial white matter (SWM) fibers just beneath the specific cytoarchitectonically defined cortical areas, which were difficult to evaluate with existing DTI analysis methods. The Jülich cytoarchitectonic atlas was applied to define cortical areas related to specific brain functions, and the Dynamic Programming (DP) method was applied to delineate the white matter pathways traversing through the SWM. Probabilistic maps were created for pathways related to motor, somatosensory, auditory, visual, and limbic functions, as well as major white matter tracts, such as the corpus callosum, the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, and the middle cerebellar peduncle, by delineating these structures in eleven healthy term-born neonates. In order to characterize maturation-related changes in diffusivity measures of these pathways, the probabilistic maps were then applied to DTIs of 49 healthy infants who were longitudinally scanned at three time-points, approximately five weeks apart. First, we investigated the normal developmental pattern based on 19 term-born infants. Next, we analyzed 30 preterm-born infants to identify developmental patterns related to preterm birth. Last, we investigated the difference in diffusion measures between these groups to evaluate the effects of preterm birth on the development of these functional pathways. Term-born and preterm-born infants both demonstrated a time-dependent decrease in diffusivity, indicating postnatal maturation in these pathways, with laterality seen in the corticospinal tract and the optic radiation. The comparison between term- and preterm-born infants indicated higher diffusivity in the preterm-born infants than in the term-born infants in three of these pathways: the body of the corpus callosum; the left inferior longitudinal fasciculus; and the pathway connecting the left primary/secondary visual cortices and the motion-sensitive area in the occipitotemporal visual cortex (V5/MT+). Probabilistic maps provided an opportunity to investigate developmental changes of each white matter pathway. Whether alterations in white matter pathways can predict functional outcomes will be further investigated in a follow-up study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Akazawa
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Linda Chang
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Robyn Yamakawa
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Sara Hayama
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Steven Buchthal
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Daniel Alicata
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Tamara Andres
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Deborrah Castillo
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Kumiko Oishi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jon Skranes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Thomas Ernst
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Kenichi Oishi
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Patay Z, Blaser SI, Poretti A, Huisman TAGM. Neurometabolic diseases of childhood. Pediatr Radiol 2015; 45 Suppl 3:S473-84. [PMID: 26346153 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-015-3279-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Revised: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic diseases affecting the pediatric brain are complex conditions, the underlying mechanisms leading to structural damage are diverse and the diagnostic imaging manifestations are often non-specific; hence early, sensitive and specific diagnosis can be challenging for the radiologist. However, misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis can result in a devastating, irreversible injury to the developing brain. Based upon the inborn error, neurometabolic diseases can be subdivided in various groups depending on the predominantly involved tissue (e.g., white matter in leukodystrophies or leukoencephalopathies), the involved metabolic processes (e.g., organic acidurias and aminoacidopathies) and primary age of the child at presentation (e.g., neurometabolic disorders of the newborn). This manuscript summarizes these topics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Patay
- Section of Neuroradiology, Division of Radiology, Department of Radiological Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Inborn errors of metabolism: combining clinical and radiologic clues to solve the mystery. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2014; 203:W315-27. [PMID: 25148190 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.13.11154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inborn errors of metabolism in children can be challenging to interpret because of the similarity of their appearances on imaging. There are important clues to the diagnosis based on clinical history, head circumference (e.g., macrocephaly), geographic distribution of lesions (e.g., subcortical vs deep white matter or frontal vs parietooccipital), and other imaging features (e.g., contrast enhancement, calcification, cysts, and cortical dysplasia). CONCLUSION In this article, we present an algorithm-based approach to diagnosing pediatric metabolic disease with a discussion of key imaging features.
Collapse
|
13
|
|
14
|
Klee D, Thimm E, Wittsack HJ, Schubert D, Primke R, Pentang G, Schaper J, Mödder U, Antoch A, Wendel U, Cohnen M. Structural white matter changes in adolescents and young adults with maple syrup urine disease. J Inherit Metab Dis 2013; 36:945-53. [PMID: 23355088 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-012-9582-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Revised: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To get insight into the nature of magnetic resonance (MR) white matter abnormalities of patients with classic maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) under diet control. METHODS Ten patients with classic MSUD and one with a severe MSUD variant (mean age 21.5 ± 5.1 years) on diet and 11 age and sex-matched healthy subjects were enrolled. Apart from standard MR sequences, diffusion weighted images (DWI), diffusion tensor images (DTI), and magnetization transfer images (MT) were obtained and comparatively analyzed for apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), tensor fractional anisotropy (FA) and MT maps in 11 regions of interest (ROI) within the white matter. RESULTS In MSUD patients DWI, DTI and FA showed distinct signal changes in the cerebral hemispheres, the dorsal limb of internal capsule, the brain stem and the central cerebellum. Signal intensity was increased in DWI with a reduced ADC and decreased values for FA. MT did not reveal differences between patients and control subjects. CONCLUSION Signal abnormalities in the white matter of adolescents and young adults under diet control may be interpreted as consequence of structural alterations like dysmyelination. The reduced ADC and FA in the white matter with preserved MT indicate a reduction in fiber tracks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Klee
- Medical Faculty, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Dusseldorf, Germany,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
McLaughlin PM, Hinshaw J, Stringer AY. Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD): a case with long-term follow-up after liver transplantation. Clin Neuropsychol 2013; 27:1199-217. [PMID: 23829516 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2013.816372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is a rare hereditary metabolic condition where the body is unable to breakdown amino acids causing toxic buildup. Acute and long-term management of MSUD involves a restricted diet and regular monitoring of amino acid levels; however, more recently liver transplants have been shown to be successful in treating this condition. Even with successful management of MSUD there is evidence from pediatric cases that shows a distinct pattern of neurocognitive deficits associated with this condition, including impaired nonverbal skills and psychomotor functioning with relatively intact verbal abilities. In the present paper, we report an adult case of MSUD with associated neurocognitive deficits and functional limitations following liver transplantation. Neuroimaging revealed no structural abnormalities, while the results from the neuropsychological evaluation showed impairment in visual-spatial processing, attention, executive functioning, and psychomotor abilities, with relative strengths in verbal skills. The patient also showed reduced adaptive functioning and mild anxiety. This case demonstrates neurocognitive deficiencies within the context of normal magnetic resonance imaging. The possible underlying mechanism of this neuropsychological profile is discussed in relation to other neurodevelopmental models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula M McLaughlin
- a Department of Psychology , York University , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Maple syrup urine disease is a rare inborn error of amino acid metabolism involving catabolic pathway of the branched-chain amino acids. This disease, if left untreated, may cause damage to the brain and may even cause death. These patients typically present with distinctive maple syrup odour of sweat and urine. Patients typically present with skin and urine smelling like maple syrup. Here we describe a case with relevant magnetic resonance imaging findings and confirmatory biochemical findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venkatraman Indiran
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Propionic acidemia is an inborn error of metabolism with neurologic manifestations. We describe a 3-year-old boy with propionic acidemia presenting with a metabolic crisis including headache, vomiting, and altered mental status with metabolic acidosis. Electroencephalography showed focal slowing in right temporal region. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed restricted diffusion with apparent diffusion coefficient correlate in the right parietooccipital region. Correction of metabolic acidosis led to clinical improvement and normalization of MRI diffusion weighted imaging/apparent diffusion coefficient changes. This article suggests that restricted diffusion resulting from metabolic crises in propionic acidemia may be reversible in some cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kandel
- Department of Neurology, University at Buffalo, SUNY-Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bhat M, Prasad C, Bindu PS, Aziz Z, Christopher R, Saini J. Unusual Imaging Findings in Brain and Spinal Cord in Two Siblings With Maple Syrup Urine Disease. J Neuroimaging 2012; 23:540-2. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2012.00746.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maya Bhat
- National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) - Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology; Bangalore; Karnataka; India
| | - Chandrajit Prasad
- National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) - Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology; Bangalore; Karnataka; India
| | - Parayil Sankaran Bindu
- National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) - Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology; Bangalore; Karnataka; India
| | - Zarina Aziz
- National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) - Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology; Bangalore; Karnataka; India
| | - Rita Christopher
- National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) - Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology; Bangalore; Karnataka; India
| | - Jitender Saini
- National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) - Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology; Bangalore; Karnataka; India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cole JT, Sweatt AJ, Hutson SM. Expression of mitochondrial branched-chain aminotransferase and α-keto-acid dehydrogenase in rat brain: implications for neurotransmitter metabolism. Front Neuroanat 2012; 6:18. [PMID: 22654736 PMCID: PMC3361127 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2012.00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In the brain, metabolism of the essential branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine, is regulated in part by protein synthesis requirements. Excess BCAAs are catabolized or excreted. The first step in BCAA catabolism is catalyzed by the branched chain aminotransferase (BCAT) isozymes, mitochondrial BCATm and cytosolic BCATc. A product of this reaction, glutamate, is the major excitatory neurotransmitter and precursor of the major inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The BCATs are thought to participate in a α-keto-acid nitrogen shuttle that provides nitrogen for synthesis of glutamate from α-ketoglutarate. The branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase enzyme complex (BCKDC) catalyzes the second, irreversible step in BCAA metabolism, which is oxidative decarboxylation of the branched-chain α-keto acid (BCKA) products of the BCAT reaction. Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) results from genetic defects in BCKDC, which leads to accumulation of toxic levels of BCAAs and BCKAs that result in brain swelling. Immunolocalization of BCATm and BCKDC in rats revealed that BCATm is present in astrocytes in white matter and in neuropil, while BCKDC is expressed only in neurons. BCATm appears uniformly distributed in astrocyte cell bodies throughout the brain. The segregation of BCATm to astrocytes and BCKDC to neurons provides further support for the existence of a BCAA-dependent glial-neuronal nitrogen shuttle since the data show that BCKAs produced by glial BCATm must be exported to neurons. Additionally, the neuronal localization of BCKDC suggests that MSUD is a neuronal defect involving insufficient oxidation of BCKAs, with secondary effects extending beyond the neuron.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Cole
- Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda MD, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Poretti A, Blaser SI, Lequin MH, Fatemi A, Meoded A, Northington FJ, Boltshauser E, Huisman TAGM. Neonatal neuroimaging findings in inborn errors of metabolism. J Magn Reson Imaging 2012; 37:294-312. [PMID: 22566357 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.23693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Individually, metabolic disorders are rare, but overall they account for a significant number of neonatal disorders affecting the central nervous system. The neonatal clinical manifestations of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) are characterized by nonspecific systemic symptoms that may mimic more common acute neonatal disorders like sepsis, severe heart insufficiency, or neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Certain IEMs presenting in the neonatal period may also be complicated by sepsis and cardiomyopathy. Early diagnosis is mandatory to prevent death and permanent long-term neurological impairments. Although neuroimaging findings are rarely specific, they play a key role in suggesting the correct diagnosis, limiting the differential diagnosis, and may consequently allow early initiation of targeted metabolic and genetic laboratory investigations and treatment. Neuroimaging may be especially helpful to distinguish metabolic disorders from other more common causes of neonatal encephalopathy, as a newborn may present with an IEM prior to the availability of the newborn screening results. It is therefore important that neonatologists, pediatric neurologists, and pediatric neuroradiologists are familiar with the neuroimaging findings of metabolic disorders presenting in the neonatal time period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Poretti
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kilicarslan R, Alkan A, Demirkol D, Toprak H, Sharifov R. Maple syrup urine disease: diffusion-weighted MRI findings during acute metabolic encephalopathic crisis. Jpn J Radiol 2012; 30:522-5. [PMID: 22476847 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-012-0079-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is caused by a genetic defect of branched-chain amino acids, which include leucine, isoleucine and valine. We report diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) findings in a newborn child with MSUD who presented with acute metabolic encephalopathic crisis. DWI (b = 1,000 s/mm(2)) showed high signal localized within the myelinated white matter (WM) areas including the cerebellar white matter, pons, bulbus, cerebral peduncles, lentiform nucleus, posterior limbs of the internal capsules, corona radiata and bilateral perirolandic cortex. The apparent diffusion coefficient values of these regions were markedly low in the affected areas. The presence of these findings was considered cytotoxic or intramyelinic edema evidenced by restricted water diffusion. In conclusion, our findings suggest that during the acute phase and early encephalopathic crisis stage of MSUD, DWI can demonstrate the involvement of myelinated WM in newborns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rukiye Kilicarslan
- Department of Radiology, Bezmialem Vakif University School of Medicine, Vatan Street, Aksaray, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
|
23
|
Prust MJ, Gropman AL, Hauser N. New frontiers in neuroimaging applications to inborn errors of metabolism. Mol Genet Metab 2011; 104:195-205. [PMID: 21778100 PMCID: PMC3758691 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2011.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2011] [Revised: 06/25/2011] [Accepted: 06/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Most inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) are associated with potential for injury to the developing central nervous system resulting in chronic encephalopathy, though the etiopathophysiology of neurological injury have not been fully established in many disorders. Shared mechanisms can be envisioned such as oxidative injury due to over-activation of N-Methyl-d-Aspartate (NMDA) receptors with subsequent glutamatergic damage, but other causes such as energy depletion or inflammation are possible. Neuroimaging has emerged as a powerful clinical and research tool for studying the brain in a noninvasive manner. Several platforms exist to study neural networks underlying cognitive processes, white matter/myelin microstructure, and cerebral metabolism in vivo. The scope and limitations of these methods will be discussed in the context of valuable information they provide in the study and management of selected inborn errors of metabolism. This review is not meant to be an exhaustive coverage of diagnostic findings on MRI in multiple IEMs, but rather to illustrate how neuroimaging modalities beyond T1 and T2 images, can add depth to an understanding of the underlying brain changes evoked by the selected IEMs. Emphasis will be placed on techniques that are available in the clinical setting. Though technically complex, many of these modalities have moved - or soon will - to the clinical arena.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan J. Prust
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Andrea L. Gropman
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, D.C., USA
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, USA
- Corresponding author at: Department of Neurology, Children’s National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20010, USA. Fax: +1 202 476 5226. (A.L. Gropman)
| | - Natalie Hauser
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ferraz-Filho JRL, Floriano VH, Quirici MB, Albuquerque RPD, Souza AS. Contribution of the diffusion-weighted MRI in the diagnosis and follow-up of encephalopathy caused by maple syrup urine disease in a full-term newborn. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2010; 67:719-23. [PMID: 19722062 DOI: 10.1590/s0004-282x2009000400033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
25
|
Hendriksz CJ. Inborn errors of metabolism for the diagnostic radiologist. Pediatr Radiol 2009; 39:211-20. [PMID: 19082997 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-008-1072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2008] [Revised: 09/28/2008] [Accepted: 10/06/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Inherited metabolic disorders are becoming more important with the increasing availability of diagnostic methods and therapies for these conditions. The radiologist has become an important link in making the diagnosis or collaborating with the specialist centre to diagnose these disorders and monitor effects of therapy. The modes of presentation, disease-specific groups, classic radiological features and investigations are explored in this article to try and give the general radiologist some crucial background knowledge. The following presentations are covered: acute intoxication, hypoglycaemia, developmental delay and storage features. Specific groups of disorders covered are the abnormalities of intermediary metabolism, disorders of fatty acid oxidation and ketogenesis, mitochondrial disorders, lysosomal storage disorders, and, briefly, other groups such as peroxisomal disorders, disorders of glycosylation, and creatine synthesis disorders. New advances and the demands for monitoring are also briefly explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris J Hendriksz
- Department of Clinical Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, B4 6NH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dudink J, Larkman DJ, Kapellou O, Boardman JP, Allsop JM, Cowan FM, Hajnal JV, Edwards AD, Rutherford MA, Counsell SJ. High b-value diffusion tensor imaging of the neonatal brain at 3T. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2008; 29:1966-72. [PMID: 18687746 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a1241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Diffusion-weighted MR imaging studies of the adult brain have shown that contrast between lesions and normal tissue is increased at high b-values. We designed a prospective study to test the hypothesis that diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) obtained at high b-values increases image contrast and lesion conspicuity in the neonatal brain. MATERIALS AND METHODS We studied 17 neonates, median (range) age of 10 (2-96) days, who were undergoing MR imaging for clinical indications. DTI was performed on a Philips 3T Intera system with b-values of 350, 700, 1500, and 3000 s/mm(2). Image contrast and lesion conspicuity at each b-value were visually assessed. In addition, regions of interest were positioned in the central white matter at the level of the centrum semiovale, frontal and occipital white matter, splenium of the corpus callosum, posterior limb of the internal capsule, and the thalamus. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values for these regions were calculated. RESULTS Isotropic diffusion image contrast and lesion-to-normal-tissue contrast increased with increasing b-value. ADC values decreased with increasing b-value in all regions studied; however, there was no change in FA with increasing b-value. CONCLUSIONS Diffusion image contrast increased at high b-values may be useful in identifying lesions in the neonatal brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Dudink
- Imaging Sciences Department, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Balin J, Parmar H, Kujawski L. Conventional and diffusion-weighted MRI findings of methotrexate related sub-acute neurotoxicity. J Neurol Sci 2008; 269:169-71. [PMID: 18191947 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2007.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2007] [Revised: 12/06/2007] [Accepted: 12/11/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We describe longitudinal diffusion-weighted MRI findings of sub-acute leukoencephalopathy following methotrexate therapy in a 24-year-old man diagnosed with pre-B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), presenting with right-sided paralysis and aphasia after second consolidation with intrathecal triple-drug therapy given intrathecally. This case demonstrates the value of DWI in evaluation and diagnosis of sub-acute toxic leukoencephalopathy in patients being treated with methotrexate. The longitudinal follow up DWI findings suggest reversible metabolic derangement rather than ischemia as the cause of these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jefferson Balin
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology, United States
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Leijser LM, de Vries LS, Rutherford MA, Manzur AY, Groenendaal F, de Koning TJ, van der Heide-Jalving M, Cowan FM. Cranial ultrasound in metabolic disorders presenting in the neonatal period: characteristic features and comparison with MR imaging. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2007; 28:1223-31. [PMID: 17698520 PMCID: PMC7977655 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a0553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Brain imaging is an integral part of the diagnostic work-up for metabolic disorders, and the bedside availability of cranial ultrasonography (cUS) allows very early brain imaging in symptomatic neonates. Our aim was to investigate the role and range of abnormalities seen on cUS in neonates presenting with metabolic disorders. A secondary aim, when possible, was to address the question of whether brain MR imaging is more informative by comparing cUS to MR imaging findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS Neonates with a metabolic disorder who had at least 1 cUS scan were eligible. cUS images were reviewed for anatomic and maturation features, cysts, calcium, and other abnormalities. When an MR imaging scan had been obtained, both sets of images were compared. RESULTS Fifty-five infants (35 also had MR imaging) were studied. The most frequent findings were in oxidative phosphorylation disorders (21 cUS and 12 MR imaging): ventricular dilation (11 cUS and 6 MR imaging), germinolytic cysts (GLCs; 7 cUS and 5 MR imaging), and abnormal white matter (7 cUS and 6 MR imaging); in peroxisomal biogenesis disorders (13 cUS and 9 MR imaging): GLCs (10 cUS and 6 MR imaging), ventricular dilation (10 cUS and 5 MR imaging), abnormal cortical folding (8 cUS and 7 MR imaging), and lenticulostriate vasculopathy (8 cUS); in amino acid metabolism and urea cycle disorders (14 cUS and 11 MR imaging): abnormal cortical folding (9 cUS and 4 MR imaging), abnormal white matter (8 cUS and 8 MR imaging), and hypoplasia of the corpus callosum (7 cUS and 6 MR imaging); in organic acid disorders (4 cUS and 2 MR imaging): periventricular white matter echogenicity (2 cUS and 1 MR imaging); and in other disorders (3 cUS and 1 MR imaging): ventricular dilation (2 cUS and 1 MR imaging). cUS findings were consistent with MR imaging findings. cUS was better for visualizing GLCs and calcification. MR imaging was more sensitive for subtle tissue signal intensity changes in the white matter and abnormality in areas difficult to visualize with cUS, though abnormalities of cortical folding suggestive of polymicrogyria were seen on cUS. CONCLUSION A wide range of abnormalities is seen using cUS in neonatal metabolic disorders. cUS is a reliable bedside tool for early detection of cysts, calcium, structural brain abnormalities, and white matter echogenicity, all suggestive of metabolic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L M Leijser
- Department of Paediatrics and Neonatal Medicine, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Sener RN. Maple syrup urine disease: diffusion MRI, and proton MR spectroscopy findings. Comput Med Imaging Graph 2007; 31:106-10. [PMID: 17207604 DOI: 10.1016/j.compmedimag.2006.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2006] [Revised: 10/05/2006] [Accepted: 11/21/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A 7-month-old boy is reported with acute metabolic crisis of maple syrup urine disease. A reversible intramyelinic type of edema was noted by diffusion MRI which completely resolved in 3 months in accordance with good clinical outcome. Proton MR spectroscopy revealed decreased NAA, and presence of methyl resonances of branched chain amino acids at 0.9 ppm, and lactic acid in the initial examination. After 3 months, NAA returned to normal, and lactic acid disappeared. The methyl resonance of branched chain amino acids, however, remained.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Nuri Sener
- Department of Radiology, Ege University Hospital, Bornova, Izmir 35100, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Vermathen P, Robert-Tissot L, Pietz J, Lutz T, Boesch C, Kreis R. Characterization of white matter alterations in phenylketonuria by magnetic resonance relaxometry and diffusion tensor imaging. Magn Reson Med 2007; 58:1145-56. [PMID: 18046700 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.21422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Vermathen
- Department Clinical Research, Unit for MR-Spectroscopy & Methodology, University Berne, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kim MJJ, Provenzale JM, Law M. Magnetic resonance and diffusion tensor imaging in pediatric white matter diseases. Top Magn Reson Imaging 2006; 17:265-74. [PMID: 17415000 DOI: 10.1097/01.rmr.0000248665.84211.0f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The central nervous system undergoes profound and predictable developmental changes during the first few years of life that provide the structural and functional elements necessary for normal neurological development. The establishment and maturation of white matter pathways is a critical component of the developing nervous system. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) offers a noninvasive and quantitative means for the evaluation of white matter changes. DTI has contributed to the evaluation of a number of childhood leukoencephalopathies; it has also been used to follow brain maturation in abnormal states, such as premature birth or early brain injury. Furthermore, it has helped characterize the relation between white matter integrity and cognitive abilities. In the future, DTI is expected to play an increasingly large role in defining developmental abnormalities at an early age and in assessing therapies for pediatric disorders such as leukodystrophies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J J Kim
- Department of Radiology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Patay Z. Diffusion-weighted MR imaging in leukodystrophies. Eur Radiol 2005; 15:2284-303. [PMID: 16021451 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-005-2846-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2005] [Revised: 05/23/2005] [Accepted: 05/31/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Leukodystrophies are genetically determined metabolic diseases, in which the underlying biochemical abnormality interferes with the normal build-up and/or maintenance of myelin, which leads to hypo- (or arrested) myelination, or dysmyelination with resultant demyelination. Although conventional magnetic resonance imaging has significantly contributed to recent progress in the diagnostic work-up of these diseases, diffusion-weighted imaging has the potential to further improve our understanding of underlying pathological processes and their dynamics through the assessment of normal and abnormal diffusion properties of cerebral white matter. Evaluation of conventional diffusion-weighted and ADC map images allows the detection of major diffusion abnormalities and the identification of various edema types, of which the so-called myelin edema is particularly relevant to leukodystrophies. Depending on the nature of histopathological changes, stage and progression gradient of diseases, various diffusion-weighted imaging patterns may be seen in leukodystrophies. Absent or low-grade myelin edema is found in mucopolysaccharidoses, GM gangliosidoses, Zellweger disease, adrenomyeloneuropathy, L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria, non-ketotic hyperglycinemia, classical phenylketonuria, Van der Knaap disease and the vanishing white matter, medium grade myelin edema in metachromatic leukodystrophy, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy and HMG coenzyme lyase deficiency and high grade edema in Krabbe disease, Canavan disease, hyperhomocystinemias, maple syrup urine disease and leukodystrophy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and high lactate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Patay
- Department of Radiology, MBC 28, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, P.O. Box 3354, 11211, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
There are numerous neurodegenerative and neurometabolic disorders of childhood. Individually, however, they are quite rare. Some may be seen only once in a lifetime at a given medical center, even one devoted to the specialized care of children. This article presents the classic neuroimaging features of some of the more commonly seen entities and of some of the more recently described metabolic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Blaser
- Division of Neuroradiology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | |
Collapse
|