Certain markers on the MRI teach us about progression of disease. These include T1 hypo-intensities (aka T1 black holes) and accelerated rates of brain atrophy (aka faster rates of brain shrinkage).
In this video we review real MRI images of T1 black holes and discuss their significance. We show also discuss MRI images of accelerated brain shrinkage and discuss their significance in MS. Of note, we have selected severe examples.
We also discuss the use of emerging technologies to be able to start to measure and track rates of brain atrophy IN CLINIC. We use a software package that processes a volume analysis of the brain (and it’s parts) and compares them to age/gender matches controls. This allows us to better understand THAT individuals degree of atrophy and track it’s change over time. Current software isn’t perfect, but it provides a very helpful guide to better inform our decisions in clinic.
=====================================================