Diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tractography in brain malformations

Pediatr Radiol. 2013 Jan;43(1):28-54. doi: 10.1007/s00247-012-2428-9. Epub 2013 Jan 4.

Abstract

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is an advanced MR technique that provides qualitative and quantitative information about the micro-architecture of white matter. DTI and its post-processing tool fiber tractography (FT) have been increasingly used in the last decade to investigate the microstructural neuroarchitecture of brain malformations. This article aims to review the use of DTI and FT in the evaluation of a variety of common, well-described brain malformations, in particular by pointing out the additional information that DTI and FT renders compared with conventional MR sequences. In addition, the relevant existing literature is summarized.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple
  • Cerebellar Diseases / pathology
  • Cerebellum / abnormalities
  • Diffusion Tensor Imaging / methods*
  • Eye Abnormalities / pathology
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Kidney Diseases, Cystic / pathology
  • Nerve Fibers / pathology*
  • Nervous System Malformations / pathology*
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / genetics
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / pathology
  • Retina / abnormalities
  • Retina / pathology
  • Scoliosis / genetics

Supplementary concepts

  • Agenesis of Cerebellar Vermis