Suivi IRM des patients SEP : pourquoi ?

The relationship reported between classical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) metrics (total T2 lesion load and enhancing lesions) and clinical activity (relapses and disability) is usually modest in multiple sclerosis. This may be related to the lack of consideration of lesion location in the majority of published studies, to the characteristics of the disability scale used (EDSS) and to the scarcity of longitudinal studies. Many recent studies taking into account lesion location and/or using longitudinal designs have demonstrated that lesions play a key role in disability accrual at short, middle and long terms. These results highlight the relevancy of conventional MRI to monitor disease activity and response to treatment. In addition, several studies have demonstrated the sensitivity of MRI to monitor occurrence of potential side effects related to treatments. In clinical practice, MRI should be repeated in patients with MS every year and more frequently in some specific situations.