[Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and functional magnetic resonance images: non-invasive alternatives for identifying epileptogenic foci].
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and functional magnetic resonance images are new non-invasive techniques which have the potential for localization of the epileptogenic focus in patients with refractory focal epilepsy, who are candidates for surgery. Determination of patterns of asymmetry of the N-acetyl-aspartic acid (NAA) between homologous regions of the temporal lobes, using magnetic resonance spectroscopy contributes to preoperative lateralization in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. This technique may become a method for localization if its usefulness in the differentiation of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy from neocortical epilepsy is validated. Functional magnetic resonance images triggered by epileptiform discharges on the EEG, when combined with methods for localizing the source, permit the site of the epileptogenic focus to be found. This would particularly benefit patients with non-lesional extra-temporal epilepsy who are potential candidates for invasive recordings. The use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy and functional magnetic resonance images in the preoperative evaluation of patients with refractory focal epilepsy, especially if it is used together with the relevant clinical data and that from other structural and functional imaging techniques, will reduce invasive monitoring and increase the accessibility to surgical treatment for this condition.
Morales-Chacón
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D000818:Animals; D001224:Aspartic Acid / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000032:analysis; D015415:Biomarkers; D001923:Brain Chemistry; D004569:Electroencephalography; D004828:Epilepsies, Partial / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D004833:Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D023421:Models, Animal; D011300:Preoperative Care; D013702:Temporal Lobe / Q000473:pathology*
D015415:Biomarkers; D001224:Aspartic Acid; C000179:N-acetylaspartate