Neuroimaging in the evaluation of pattern and timing of fetal and neonatal brain abnormalities

Introduction In this updated review, current and advanced neuroimaging technologies are discussed, along with the basic principles of imaging diagnosis and guidelines for utilization in fetal, perinatal, and neonatal brain abnormalities [1,2]. This includes pattern of injury and timing issues, with special emphasis on neurovascular disease and the differential diagnosis. In the causative differentiation of static encephalopathies (e.g., cerebral palsy, CP) from progressive encephalopathies, specific categories and timing are addressed. These include developmental abnormalities, trauma, neurovascular disease, infections and inflammatory processes, and metabolic disorders. Although a rare but important cause of progressive perinatal encephalopathy, neoplastic processes are not considered in detail here. Molecular and genetic technologies continue to advance toward eventual clinical application.