A Multiparametric Brain and Cord MR Imaging Study of a Patient with Hirayama Disease

• Published in: American Journal of Neuroradiology Vol. 27; no. 10; pp. 2115 - 2117
• Main Authors: Gallo, A, Rocca, M.A, Tortorella, P, Ammendola, A, Tedeschi, G, Filippi, M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oak Brook, IL Am Soc Neuroradiology 01.11.2006; American Society of Neuroradiology
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Brain - physiopathology; Degenerative and inherited degenerative diseases of the nervous system. Leukodystrophies. Prion diseases; Forearm; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Hand; Human; Humans; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Learning. Memory; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Medical sciences; Memory; Middle Aged; Muscular Atrophy - pathology; Muscular Atrophy - physiopathology; Nervous system; Neurology; Psychology. Psychoanalysis. Psychiatry; Psychology. Psychophysiology; Radiodiagnosis. Nmr imagery. Nmr spectrometry; Spinal Cord - pathology; Spine; Human; Nervous system diseases; Radiodiagnosis; Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging; Central nervous system; Encephalon
• ISSN: 0195-6108; 1936-959X; 1432-1920

In this study, we used a multiparametric MR imaging approach to assess a patient with Hirayama disease (HD). We found that cervical cord damage extends beyond cord T2-visible lesions. We also showed an altered pattern of cortical activations during movements of clinically unaffected limbs. Whereas this study suggests a more widespread cord involvement in HD than seen on routine MR imaging, its cause remains unclear (vascular damage versus a primary lower motor neuron disease).