Neuro-radiology

Thank you to all those who attended our recent talk!

We are excited to share the highlights from our launch event. Our recent meeting focused on ground-breaking research in two critical areas of medical science: the advancements in stroke imaging and treatment, and the effects of methylphenidate on white matter in ADHD patients.

Highlights from the Event

Advances in Stroke Imaging and Treatment

The discussion centred on the evolution of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treatment and the significant strides made in the field. Key points included:

• Historical Treatment Methods:
  • IV Thrombolysis: Introduced following the 1995 NINDS study, the treatment window has been extended from 3 hours to 4.5 hours of the Last Well Known (LWK) time.
  • Mechanical Thrombectomy (MT): Since the 2015 MR CLEAN trial, MT has been a game-changer, particularly for patients with Large Vessel Occlusions (LVO) in the anterior circulation. The treatment window has expanded up to 24 hours based on perfusion imaging that identifies salvageable tissue.
• Recent Advances:
  • Posterior Circulation Strokes: Traditionally, MT was reserved for anterior circulation strokes, but recent studies highlight its benefits in basilar artery strokes.
  • Large Core Infarcts and Distal Vessel Occlusions: New trials are exploring MT efficacy for large core infarcts (ASPECTS 3-5) and distal vessel occlusions.
• Imaging Techniques:
  • Non-contrast CT Scan (NCCT): Used to rule out haemorrhagic strokes and assess the extent of ischemic changes.
  • CT Angiography (CTA) and Perfusion Imaging: Crucial for visualizing cerebral vasculature, identifying occlusions, and extending the therapeutic window for MT.
  • MRI: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is employed to differentiate between infarcted tissue and salvageable penumbra.
• Implications: Advanced imaging techniques are revolutionizing stroke treatment by allowing more personalized and timely interventions, potentially improving patient outcomes significantly.

White Matter Changes in ADHD Following Methylphenidate Treatment

The second presentation delved into the neurobiological impact of methylphenidate (MPH) on white matter in individuals with ADHD, based on a randomized control trial. Key findings included:

• Study Objective: To investigate the effects of MPH on the white matter microstructure in stimulant treatment-naïve boys and young adult men with ADHD.
• Methodology: Participants were randomly assigned to receive either MPH or a placebo, with changes in fractional anisotropy (FA) measured using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).
• Results:
  • Increased FA in Boys: After 16 weeks of MPH treatment, boys showed significant increases in FA, indicating improved white matter integrity and neural connectivity.
  • No Significant Changes in Adults: Adult men did not exhibit changes in FA, suggesting age-dependent effects of MPH.
  • Decreased Mean Diffusivity (MD): Both FA and MD changes were observed in regions such as the corpus callosum and frontal white matter, reflecting healthier white matter post-treatment.
• Implications: These findings highlight the importance of considering age and developmental stages when prescribing ADHD treatments. The study underscores the potential of MPH to modulate brain development, particularly in younger individuals.
• Future Directions: Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of MPH, its impact on different age groups and genders, and its comparative efficacy with other ADHD medications.

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We welcome speakers and participants at all levels, from medical students to consultants. If you're interested in speaking or discussing, please contact us at official.brjc@gmail.com or reach out through Facebook and Instagram.

Thank you once again for your participation and enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!