In vivo quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

Background: This study explores the magnetostatic properties of the Alzheimer's disease brain using a recently proposed, magnetic resonance imaging, postprocessed contrast mechanism. Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) has the potential to monitor in vivo iron levels by reconstructing magnetic susceptibility sources from field perturbations. However, with phase data acquired at a single head orientation, the technique relies on several theoretical approximations and requires fast-evolving regularisation strategies. Methods: In this context, the present study describes a complete methodological framework for magnetic susceptibility measurements with a review of its theoretical foundations. Findings and Significance: The regional and whole-brain cross-sectional comparisons between Alzheimer's disease subjects and matched controls indicate that there may be significant magnetic susceptibility differences for deep brain nuclei - particularly the putamen - as well as for posterior grey and white matter regions. The methodology and findings described suggest that the QSM method is ready for larger-scale clinical studies. © 2013 Acosta-Cabronero et al.