Type of publication:
Conference abstract
Author(s):
*Fayez O.; Simmons H.; Johnson K.; Schalk D.; Brunner K.; Basu P.; Capuano S.; Nesathurai S.
Citation:
Journal of Neuropathology and Experimental Neurology. Conference: 99th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Neuropathologists, AANP 2023. Monterey, CA United States. 82(6) (pp 502), 2023. Date of Publication: June 2023.
Abstract:
Background: Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (TSCI) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in humans. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has been a spectacular modality in management, however, data correlating MRI findings with pathological insults in the hyperacute time-frame (i.e., within one hour of injury) is limited. This is due to the time-period between injury and transport to hospital is typically one-hour or more. Only after assessment and stabilization can an MRI be completed. In this context, nonhuman primate models are essential to provide insights into this critical scientific hypothesis. Method(s): The subject was a Rhesus macaque. Baseline MRI imaging of the spine was obtained. A small laminotomy was performed at L5 level and an epidural balloon catheter was advanced to the level of the lower thoracic spine which was inflated rapidly and remained for one-hour to produce lesions consistent with TSCI. MRI imaging, with and without contrast, was obtained over the next hour. Subsequently, the subject was humanely euthanized and a post-mortem examination was conducted. Tissue sections were collected from the epicenter, caudal and cephalad sites of the lesion. Result(s): The abnormalities were most prominent with Disco- Lava sequence MRI Technique. Sagittal images of the thoracic spine displayed increased abnormalities including increased signal intensity. The findings were consistent with edema and/or hemorrhage. Histology of coronal sections at the level of injury revealed focally extensive disruption of grey matter and central canal with marked grey matter hemorrhage, acute necrosis, and mild multifocal white matter hemorrhage. Eosinophilic material and erythrocytes were found in adjacent sections, up to 2 cm caudal to the lesion. Conclusion(s): MRI abnormalities were present within one hour after injury in acute experimental spinal cord injury. The histopathological findings are consistent with the radiological abnormalities.
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