Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Detect Brain Damage in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Study Summary

This study will evaluate the ability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using different magnet strengths (1.5, 3 and 7 Tesla) to detect damage in different parts of the brain in patients with multiple sclerosis. The higher the Tesla, the greater the ability to see brain changes. Healthy subjects will also be studied to compare findings in patients with those of normal volunteers. Healthy normal volunteers and patients with multiple sclerosis 18-65 years of age may be eligible for this study. Patients should have minimal clinical disability. Candidates are screened with a medical history, physical examination, and blood and urine tests. Participants undergo three MRI examinations. The first is on a 1.5 Tesla machine. The second and third - at 3 Tesla and 7 Tesla - are done within 30 days of the first. Each procedure takes about 2 hours. Before and after the 7 Tesla examination, subjects have an electrocardiogram (EKG), their blood pressure and temperature are measured and a blood sample is drawn. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce images of body tissues and organs. This test has several advantages over x-ray methods, such as the ability to see more clearly inside the brain and to see chemical changes that might occur in specific neurological diseases. Also, since x-rays are not used, there is no radiation risk. Radio waves are generated and changes in magnetic fields are measured and analyzed by computer. For the procedure, the subject lies on a table that is moved into a metal cylinder (the MRI scanner) that has a strong magnetic field. Earplugs are worn to muffle loud thumping noises caused by the electrical switching of the radio frequency circuits. During the MRI, subjects receive an injection of a contrast agent called Gadolinium, which brightens the images. ...