MRI: measure of efficacy

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Abstract
Even the briefest account of progress in the difficult field of adult human demylinating disease would highlight the prominent role played by MRI scanning. The methodology has been prominent in studying disease dynamics and has been applied widely to the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy as epitomized by studies with the type 1 interferons. It has allowed non-invasive identification of objectively measured activity in multiple sclerosis, a disorder notoriously difficult to evaluate. The rationale has been compelling. Enter MRI, and not only could the disease burden of demyelination be computed and the accumulation of new lesions be quantified, but also ongoing activity could be dated by use of contrast enhancing agents.