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Review
. 2021 May;29(2):185-193.
doi: 10.1016/j.mric.2021.01.004.

Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Infants

Jeffrey J Neil  1 , Christopher D Smyser  2
Affiliations
Review

Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Infants

Jeffrey J Neil et al. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am. 2021 May.

Abstract

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a wealth of information regarding the neonatal brain. Diffusion anisotropy values reflect changes in the microstructure that accompany early maturation of white and gray matter. In term neonates with neonatal encephalopathy, diffusion imaging provides a useful means of assessing brain injury during the first week of life. In preterm neonates, measures of white matter anisotropy provide information on the nature and extent of white matter disruption. Subsequently, diffusion MRI plays an important role in illuminating fundamental elements of brain development and fulfilling the clinical need to develop prognostic indicators for term and preterm infants.

Keywords: Brain development; Diffusion imaging; MRI; Neonate; Preterm.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure Drs J.J. Neil and C.D. Smyser receive support through grant NIH P50 HD103525. Dr C.D. Smyser also receives support through grants R01 MH113883 and R01 MH113570.

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