Impaired Glymphatic and Lymphatic Contrast Clearance in Multiple Sclerosis: Quantitative Analysis of dFLAIR Imaging at 7T MRI

Motivation: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neuroinflammatory disease marked by impaired waste clearance in the brain. Researches suggested that dysfunction in the brain lymphatic and glymphatic systems may contribute to MS pathophysiology. Goal(s): To investigate contrast dynamics within MS-affected glymphatic regions, assessing the role of clearance pathways in MS using contrast-enhanced MRI. Approach: We analyzed high-resolution difference FLAIR (dFLAIR) imaging data from 7T MRI, capturing contrast agent distribution at early and late post-contrast time points. Results: Results revealed distinct contrast dynamics across glymphatic-related regions in MS, characterized by reduced early contrast uptake and delayed clearance at the late post-contrast time point. Impact: This study highlights altered glymphatic function as a potential biomarker for MS disease progression. Findings underscore the utility of 7T dFLAIR imaging in assessing glymphatic clearance, opening pathways for improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting waste clearance in MS patients.