T1 contrast versus fluid-attenuated inversion recovery contrast technique for evaluation of cerebral tuberculosis

Abstract

Objectives: T2-weighted (T2W) fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), a traditional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, is regarded as one of the most effective methods for examining brain disorders. The identification of brain pathologies can be significantly aided by T2 FLAIR and T1 post-contrast imaging. However, lesion enhancement is occasionally inconspicuous on T1-weighted image. Hence, for the evaluation of brain disorders, a MRI approach known as FLAIR contrast would combine the benefits of T2W FLAIR with contrast-enhancement on a single picture. Material and Methods: After obtaining clearance from the Institution’s Ethics Committee, contrast-enhanced MRI (CE-MRI) brain of 20 patients was taken for the study. CE-MRI was performed using 1.5 Tesla Intera PHILIPS with intravenous administration of gadolinium at approximately 0.1 mL/kg/body at a rate of 10 mL/15 s. Results: This study showed a better appreciation of lesion conspicuity when compared to prior T1 contrast images. However, there was no significant difference in the number of lesions, lesion extension, and degree of contrast-enhancement on comparison with T1 contrast images. Conclusion: T1 FLAIR contrast shows a better appreciation of lesion conspicuity when compared to T1 contrast images. Post-contrast FLAIR imaging is a valuable adjunct to post-contrast T1W imaging and effectively delineates cerebral tubercular pathologies. However, T1 FLAIR cannot be used as a replacement for conventional T1 fat saturated post-contrast imaging.