Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Central Nervous System Diseases

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a new and still rapidly developing imaging technique which requires a new approach to image interpreta- tion. Radiologists are compelled to translate their experience accumulat- ed from X-ray techniques into the language of MRI, and likewise stu- dents of radiology and interested clinicians need special training in both languages. Out of this necessity emerged the concept of this book as a manual on the application and evaluation of proton MRI for the radiolo- gist and as a guide for the referring physician who wants to learn about the diagnostic value of MRI in specific conditions. After a short section on the basic principles of MRI, the contrast mechanisms of present-day imaging techniques, knowledge of which is essential for the analysis of relaxation times, are described in greater de- tail. This is followed by a demonstration of functional neuroanatomy us- ing three-dimensional view of MR images and a synopsis of frequent neurological symptoms and their topographic correlations, which will fa- cilitate examination strategy with respect to both accurate diagnosis and economy.