Abstract
Background
Diffusion tensor data can be analyzed using region-of-interest (ROI) analysis and tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS). There is essentially no literature validating or comparing these techniques in the neonate.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to perform a direct comparison of fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD) derived using manual ROI analysis and TBSS modified for use in neonates.
Materials and methods
This study was IRB-approved. Thirty-nine infants, 32–49 weeks post-conception age, underwent MRI at 3 T. FA, AD and RD of the callosal genu (CG) and splenium (CS) and posterior limbs of both internal capsules (PLIC) were determined using both techniques. Pearson correlation (r) was used to estimate the concordance of tensor metrics derived from these techniques.
Results
The r value for FA in the CG, CS and left and right PLIC was 0.88, 0.75, 0.78 and 0.35, respectively. The r value for axial/radial diffusivity in the CG, CS and left and right PLIC was 0.62/0.72, 0.76/0.64, 0.68/0.9 and 0.3/0.72, respectively. The variable concordance results from problems with spatial correspondence of ROI masks between the native space and the FA skeleton.
Conclusion
Direct comparison between these methodologies shows tensor metrics varied with location and by degree, suggesting the two techniques do not provide consistently comparable results.
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Seo, Y., Wang, Z.J., Ball, G. et al. Diffusion tensor imaging metrics in neonates—a comparison of manual region-of-interest analysis vs. tract-based spatial statistics. Pediatr Radiol 43, 69–79 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-012-2527-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-012-2527-7