Proton MR spectroscopy of the foramen of Monro region in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex.

PURPOSE To evaluate with 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) the metabolites rations of the foramen of Monro's region in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). METHOD Twelve patients with TSC and an age and gender-matched control group underwent MR imaging at a 1.5T scanner, and 1H-MRS at the foramen of Monro level with a multivoxel acquisition. Similar volumes of interest were selected in each side of the foramen of Monro and in the basal ganglia (lentiform nuclei). The obtained N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine (Cr) and choline (Cho) peak amplitude values and ratios were studied. The statistical analysis was performed and p<0.05 was considered statically significant. RESULTS There was no significant difference between the NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios near to the foramen of Monro and basal ganglia of the TSC patients compared with the controls (p>0.05). CONCLUSION The NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios near to the foramen of Monro and basal ganglia of TSC patients are similar to the rations obtained in the control group.