Are Periventricular Lesions Specific for Multiple Sclerosis?

Iron Rims as an Imaging Biomarker in MS: A Systematic Mapping Review

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory, demyelinating and degenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS). To date, there is no definitive imaging biomarker for diagnosing MS. The current diagnostic criteria are mainly based on clinical relapses supported by the presence of white matter lesions (WMLs) on MRI. However, misdiagnosis of MS is still a significant clinical problem. The paramagnetic, iron rims (IRs) around white matter lesions have been proposed to be an imaging biomarker in MS. This study aimed to carry out a systematic mapping review to explore the detection of iron rim lesions (IRLs), on clinical MR scans, and describe the characteristics of IRLs presence in MS versus other MS-mimic disorders. Methods: Publications from 2001 on IRs lesions were reviewed in three databases: PubMed, Web of Science and Embase. From the initial result set 718 publications, a final total of 38 papers were selected. Results: The study revealed an increasing interest in iron/paramagnetic rims lesions studies. IRs were more frequently found in periventricular regions and appear to be absent in MS-mimics. Conclusions IR is proposed as a promising imaging biomarker for MS.

Imaging of Central Nervous System Demyelinating Disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article focuses on neuroimaging in multiple sclerosis (MS), the most common central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating disorder encountered by practicing neurologists. Less common adult demyelinating disorders and incidental subclinical white matter abnormalities that are often considered in the differential diagnosis of MS are also reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advancements in neuroimaging techniques, eg, the application of ultrahigh-field MRI, are rapidly expanding the use of neuroimaging in CNS demyelinating disorders. Probably the most important recent findings include the detection of cortical lesions and CNS atrophy even in early stages of MS. The key development for practicing neurologists is the growing impact of MRI on the diagnostic criteria for MS and neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders.

SUMMARY

MRI serves as an important component of the diagnostic criteria for MS and other major CNS demyelinating disorders, and it has been established as a reliable and sensitive indicator of disease activity and progression. In addition, rapidly advancing neuroimaging techniques are helping to improve our understanding of disease pathogenesis.