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. 2019 Sep 26;9:10.7916/tohm.v0.682. doi: 10.7916/tohm.v0.682

Table 2.

Main Neuroimaging Modalities Available for Spinocerebellar Ataxias Evaluation

Modality Information Afforded Clinical Utility Current Availability
CT Identification of gross brain abnormalities. Useful to characterize the main partners of atrophy, but not specifically. Widely available.
MRI Identification of abnormalities with accuracy to gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid. Useful to characterize the main partners of atrophy and signal changes, specifically; more sensitive to subtle alterations. Available in developed geographic regions. Limited availability in underdeveloped areas.
Three-dimensional (3D) true volumetric methods and voxel-based morphometry allow automated segmentation and comparison between groups, in both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. Limited to specialized research centers.
MRS Identification and interpretation of altered metabolites concentration in specific areas. Assess physiological function of the observable metabolites and their concentration changes. Specific areas should be assessed. Limited to specialized centers.
fMRI Analyses of perfusion-induced changes in image contrast, during performance of a task. Color maps superimposed on morphological images allows visualizing both positive correlation (greater activation during task) and negative correlation (reduced activation during task). Limited to specialized research centers.
FDG-PET Regional brain glucose metabolism Downstream marker of neuronal injury and neurodegeneration. Important for presymptomatic evaluation. Limited to specialized centers.

Source: Adapted from references2,3,62.

Abbreviations: CT, Computed Tomography; MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging; MRS, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; fMRI, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging; FDG-PET, Positron Emission Tomography with 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose.