Abstract #1437

Tract-Specific Myelin Content Mapping of the Corticospinal Tract Predicts Impairment in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Richard Dortch¹ and Francesca Bagnato^2,3

¹Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, United States, ²Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States, ³Neuroimaging Unit/Neuroimmunology Division, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States

Quantitative magnetization transfer using the selective inversion recovery method yields indices [macromolecular-to-free water pool-size-ratio (PSR) and longitudinal spin-lattice relaxation rate (R_1f)] that report on myelin content in the brain. In this study, SIR indices were estimated in the corticospinal tract (CST) of patients with multiple sclerosis for comparison to clinical disability measures [Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Timed 25-Foot Walk T25FW)]. Significant correlations were observed between SIR indices (PSR/R_1f) and disability scores (EDSS/T25FW). The strongest correlation was between PSR and EDSS, suggesting that measurements of PSR in the CST may report on myelin damage and/or repair in multiple sclerosis.

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