MRI IN AN ANIMAL-MODEL OF VASOGENIC BRAIN EDEMA

Purpose: To systematically evaluate modern magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques of studying brain oedema, an animal model of vasogeni c oedema is needed. Material and methods: We developed such a model by stereotactically cannulating the caudate nucleus in 11 Wistar-rats an d infusing a solution of albumin, The way the oedema developed was ima ged by MRI and then correlated histologically (three animals) and macr oscopically after infusion of Evans' blue (two animals). Results: The extension of the infusion oedema was the same in both MRI and histolog y as well, as at direct inspection of the specimen after infusion of E vans blue. With continuous acquisition of T-1-weighted images after in fusion of a 1% solution of Gd-DTPA we were able to demonstrate the dyn amics of oedema evolution and bulk flow. Conclusion: We believe that t his infusion oedema is a suitable model for systematically investigati ng both signal behaviour and pathogenesis of vasogenic brain oedema by MRI.