ACTRIMS 2023 | Quantitative spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging in MS: value & challenges

Lisa Eunyoung Lee, PhD student, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada, explains the clinical value of quantitative measurements of spinal cord pathology in multiple sclerosis (MS) care and the inherent technical challenges. The cervical spinal cord is highly relevant to disability in MS, and damage in the spinal cord can contribute to motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction as well as overall worst outcomes. Unfortunately, the cervical spinal cord has been understudied using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, primarily due to technical challenges. However, advancements in acquisition protocols, post-processing, and software have made spinal cord imaging more feasible. Importantly, quantitative measurements of the spinal cord using advanced MRI techniques can be instrumental in monitoring progression, which is essential to develop better treatments for progressive MS. This interview took place at the Americas Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ACTRIMS) Forum 2023 in San Diego, CA.

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