[Diffusion formation and psychiatric diseases].
The basic principle behind diffusion is Brownian motion. The diffusion parameters obtained in a clinical association provide information on the spatial distribution of water molecule mobility and, therefore, evidence of the morphological integrity of the white and grey matters of the brain. In recent years functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) could contribute to obtaining a detailed understanding of the cortical and subcortical cerebral networks. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) investigations can demonstrate the extent of anisotropy and the fiber pathways in so-called parametric images. For example, in Alzheimer's disease DTI reveals a reduced structural connectivity between the posterior cingulum and the hippocampus. This article shows examples of the application of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in psychiatric disorders.
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Kirrberger Straße, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland. Wolfgang.Reith@uniklinikum-saarland.de.
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W
Reith
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Kirrberger Straße, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland.
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J
Kulikovski
D001921:Brain / Q000473:pathology*; D063132:Connectome / Q000379:methods*; D056324:Diffusion Tensor Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000473:pathology*; D009413:Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / Q000473:pathology*; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000473:pathology*
Alzheimer’s disease; Diffusion tensor imaging; Diffusion-weighted imaging; Functional magnetic resonance imaging; Mild cognitive impairment