Magnetic resonance imaging of the child's brain

The most significant difference between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) is that the former graphic representation of the cerebrospinal axis and its structures does not use ionizing radiation or the injection of contrast material. The physical principles of MRI and the very characteristic appearances of some pathological processes common in children require special study. Low-proton density areas are generally dark; the short T₁ value is responsible for white matter appearing clear; inversion recovery sequences permit study of the progression of myelination.