Proton MR spectroscopy in idiopathic spasmodic torticollis.

Authors :: Federico, F.
Lucivero, V.
Simone, I. L.
Defazio, G.
De Salvia, R.
Mezzapesa, D. M.
Petruzzellis, M.
Tortorella, C.
Livrea, P.
Source :: Neuroradiology; Jul2001, Vol. 43 Issue 7, p532-536, 5p
Publication Year :: 2001
Abstract: Single-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (<superscript>1</superscript>H-MRS), localised to the basal ganglia, was used to determine changes in metabolite levels in idiopathic spasmodic torticollis (IST). We examined nine patients and 13 healthy subjects. The mean values ( ± SD) of peak area ratios were: IST: N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA)/choline-containing compounds (Cho) 1.79 ± 0.39, NAA/creatine and phosphocreatine compounds (Cr) 1.61 ± 0.38, Cho/Cr 0.91 ± 0.19; controls: NAA/Cho 2.07 ± 0.35, NAA/Cr 1.82 ± 0.31, Cho/Cr 0.89 ± 0.12. Statistical analysis showed that NAA/Cho and NAA/Cr were significantly lower in patients than in controls ( P = 0.0304 and 0.0431, respectively). These results indicate a reduction in NAA, and suggest striatal involvement in the pathogenesis IST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]