Diffusion Tensor Imaging of the Hippocampus in MCI and Early Alzheimer's Disease

摘要: The hippocampus is among the first brain structures to be affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Microstructural alterations within this region have been quantified in vivo using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), a relatively novel MRI-based technique for mapping properties of water. Existing evidence indicates that DTI-derived mean diffusivity (MD) anterior more predictive than ordinary volumetric indices degree episodic memory impairment patients with early AD. Thus, altered MD (anterior) might highly indicative hippocampal dysfunction, thereby potentially qualifying measure as candidate marker monitoring progression Longitudinal studies are needed confirm concept. DTI-based assessment microstructure also value AD diagnosis and predicting course cognitive decline subjects at risk dementia. Mean microstructural volume macrostructural index integrity seem reflect different, albeit overlapping, aspects neurodegenerative process. In contrast, fractional anisotropy less efficient quantifying diseased clinical context. Development automatic algorithms, providing measurements routine use, task future studies.