Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of the brain

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provides image contrast that is different from that provided by conventional MR techniques. It is p articularly sensitive for detection of acute ischemic stroke and differenti ation of acute stroke from other processes that manifest with sudden neurol ogic deficits. Diffusion-weighted MR imaging also provides adjunctive infor mation for other cerebral diseases including neoplasms, intracranial infect ions, traumatic brain injury, and demyelinating processes. Because stroke i s common and in the differential diagnosis of most acute neurologic events, diffusion-weighted MR imaging should be considered an essential sequence, and its use in most brain MR studies is recommended.