We provide the data on the modern use of MRI of different modalities as a prognostic tool in the encephalitis diagnostics in pediatrics. According to the recent scientific knowledge, this implementation is possible, but its efficacy depends on the modality of MRI: structural, functional or MRI with contrast. Structural MRI efficacy in children with encephalitis is dubious and clearly depends on the etiology and phase of the inflammatory process. In the recent years, the implementation of the functional MRI methods (DTI MRS) and MRI with contrast significantly changed the imaging practice; there are some reports that these modalities of MRI are more effective as a prognostic tool in encephalitis than the structural one. Thus, a future research in this field is needed.
Summary. In this review magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) is presented as the tool for differential diagnostic in the brainstem damage in children. It is shown that the isolated or connected with supratentorial changes brainstems lesion occurs within a wide range of pathological conditions. Small size, less clear distinction between gray and white matter and the limit of visualization infratentorial structures with multiparametric MRI often lead to difficulties in the differential diagnosis. Sometimes the most important in the diagnostic is the topography of lesions and their signal intensity. Clinical data, the results of epidemiological and laboratory studies are primary importance for differential diagnosis of brainstem damages.
In this review, we provide the data on the modern use of different MRI modalities and computer tomography (CT) as diagnostic and prognostic tools for meningitis of various etiology, first of all, bacterial purulent meningitis. Each of these techniques has its own field of application depending on the stage of the disease and the patients condition (necessity of intensive care procedures, ventilation support). The opinions on the diagnostic value of CT and structural MRI data differ and depend on the etiology and phase of the inflammatory process. In the recent years, the techniques of multiparametric MRI are widely implemented in the practice. Beside structural MRI, they include diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and MR spectroscopy (MRS), as well as studies with artificial contrast; there are some reports that these modalities are more effective as a diagnostic tool in meningitis. Thus, the use of multiparametric MRI techniques and CT with contrast is promising and justified for the diagnostics of patients with bacterial purulent meningitis from the viewpoint of enhanced sensitivity.
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