MRI Scan May Help Diagnose Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
Merrill D., Raji C., et al.
MRI Scan May Help Diagnose Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry
August 23, 2016.
Overview
This study explores the use of Neuroreader® automated brain volumetrics to identify structural brain changes associated with chronic traumatic encephalopathy in a living patient. MRI volumetric analysis revealed progressive atrophy patterns consistent with CTE confirmed in post-mortem cases.
Key Findings
- Neuroreader® detected significant shrinkage in key brain regions linked to traumatic brain injury
- The patient exhibited 14% gray-matter loss over four years
- MRI volumetrics offer a non-invasive, radiation-free option for assessing suspected CTE
- Results suggest potential for earlier clinical evaluation and expanded research capabilities
Why It Matters
CTE can currently only be diagnosed through autopsy. This research highlights MRI-based volumetric analysis as a promising path toward living diagnosis—a major advancement for athletes, veterans, and patients with repetitive head trauma.