DEMONSTRATION OF PLAQUE DEVELOPMENT IN MU LTIPLE-SCLEROSIS USING MAGNETIZATION-TRANSFER IMAGING AND SHORT ECHO TIME PROTON SPECTROSCOPY

We investigated a patient with secondary progressive Multiple Sclerosi s during an acute relapse and after 6 months using several Magnetic Re sonance methods. Conventional Magnetic Resonance images demonstrated a t the time of relapse a large gadolinium enhancing lesion. Using proto n spectroscopy and Magnetisation Transfer images heterogeneous changes suggestive of oedematous swelling peripherally, and active myelin des truction centrally were demonstrated in the acute phase. After clinica l recovery there was marked resolution of acute inflammatory Magnetic Resonance abnormalities and recovery of MR tissue parameters. In compa rison with conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Magnetisation Trans fer Imaging and Proton Spectroscopy provide improved characterisation of pathological changes in MS.