The Effect of Inflammation on DTI Derived Axial & Radial Diffusivity: A Monte Carlo Simulation Study

Yong Wang¹, Sheng-Kwei Song²

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) derived radial diffusivity and axial diffusivity have been used to detect myelin and axon integrity respectively in CNS injury. Although it has been well recognized that crossing fibers pose significant challenge in the application of DTI derived directional diffusivity. It is not clear how the inflammation caused vasogenic edema and cell infiltration impact DTI findings. In this study, Monte Carlo simulation is employed to demonstrate the possible false assessment of axonal injury and/or demyelination of a normal axon fiber bundle under the influence of inflammation.