Work

Magnetic resonance imaging volumetry in atypical parkinsonism: current evidence and neuroradiological perspectives

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Atypical parkinsonism, including progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), multiple system atrophy (MSA), and corticobasal syndrome (CBS), represents a major diagnostic challenge, particularly in the early stages of disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a pivotal role in the differential diagnosis of these disorders. Beyond conventional qualitative assessment, quantitative MRI techniques, especially volumetry and planimetry, have gained increasing importance as objective tools for evaluating disease specific patterns of brain atrophy. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on MRI-based morphometric approaches in atypical parkinsonism, with a particular focus on brainstem, basal ganglia, cerebellar, and cortical measurements. The diagnostic value of established indices, including the Magnetic Resonance Parkinsonism Index (MRPI) and its updated version, MRPI 2.0, is discussed, along with advances in automated segmentation and machine learning based approaches. The potential role of MRI volumetry as both a diagnostic and progression biomarker is highlighted, together with current limitations and future perspectives relevant to neuroradiological practice.

Source: Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience

DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2026.1816084

Authors: Bartosz Migda, Natalia Madetko-Alster, Anna Migda, Michał Kutyłowski, Piotr Alster

Institution: Medical University of Warsaw

Language: English

Topic: Parkinson's Disease Mechanisms and Treatments

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801