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MR Spectroscopy (Brain)

Non-invasive measurement of chemical metabolites in brain tissue.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is MR Spectroscopy (Brain)?

MR spectroscopy (MRS) is an advanced MR technique that, in addition to conventional MR imaging, analyses the chemical environment of hydrogen atoms in brain tissue and measures the concentration of specific metabolites.

N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) reflects neuronal integrity, choline (Cho) reflects cell membrane turnover, creatine (Cr) reflects energy metabolism and lactate reflects anaerobic metabolism. In tumours NAA typically falls and the Cho/Cr ratio rises.

It is used in grading brain tumours (low vs high grade), distinguishing tumour recurrence from radiation necrosis and assessing metabolic and demyelinating diseases.

Symptoms

Brain tumour grading
Tumour recurrence vs radiation necrosis
Assessment of brain abscess and infection
Investigation of metabolic encephalopathy
Diagnosis of demyelinating disease

Risk Factors

MR contraindications (metallic implants, pacemakers)
Claustrophobia
Small lesion size (insufficient voxel volume)
Proximity of the target to bone or air (artefact)
Motion artefact (poor cooperation)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a brain MR shows a lesion suspicious for tumour
  • When recurrence vs radionecrosis must be distinguished after treatment
  • In an encephalopathy thought to be metabolic
  • For characterisation of atypical brain lesions

Treatment Methods

01
Single-voxel or multi-voxel MRS together with conventional MR
02
Short TE (30–35 ms) and long TE (135–270 ms) protocols
03
Calculation of metabolite ratios (Cho/Cr, NAA/Cr, Cho/NAA)
04
Assessment of the lipid–lactate peak
05
Correlation with clinical data and multidisciplinary review

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.