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Abstract #4281

Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping of the motor cortex in ALS and PLS patients: A Biomarker for Upper Motor Neuron Dysfunction

Gerd Melkus 1,2 , Santanu Chakraborty 1,2 , and Pierre Bourque 3

1 Department of Medical Imaging, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada, 2 Department of Radiology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada, 3 Department of Neurology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada

There is no definite technique for demonstrating UMN involvement in ALS/PLS and UMN findings on clinical examination may not be evident until late in the disease course. T2 hypointensity in the motor cortex in ALS has been described before and can be assessed better due to increased resolution of SWI. QSM processing and analysis of the motor cortex and control area enables quantification of these signal changes. In our series there is a significant correlation between QSM values and presence of UMN signs (spasticity). However, larger prospective studies will be needed to determine diagnostic and prognostic value of this sign.

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