Evaluation of Brain Waste Clearance Pathways Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Pediatric Patients With White Matter Diseases

Valutazione Delle Vie "Glinfatiche" Utilizzando la Risonanza Magnetica Nelle Malattie Della Sostanza Bianca

The dilation of perivascular spaces can be the result of various etiopathogenetic processes. White matter atrophy can cause enlargement of these perivascular spaces (PVS) but also obstruction of fluid drainage systems (interstitial fluid, ISF) and metabolites, as evidenced by some recent studies. Focal stagnation of liquids and deposition of toxic material induce tissue hypoxia and neuroglial dysfunction. Dilation of PVS can be associated with changes in white matter and microhemorrhages. We want to study these etiopathogenetic phenomena by implementing specific MRI methods.

Primary objective: the quantification of indirect magnetic resonance markers of altered waste drainage systems using validated scales in patients with white matter disease. Secondary objective: the evaluation of white matter alterations in relation to the known anatomical glymphatic pathways by analyzing both structural and diffusion data.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with and without white matter disease
• patients willing to participate in research with signed consent form
• no age limit (results will be age matched)

Exclusion Criteria:

• unwilling to participate in research