Can QSM MRI help tell MS from age-related brain changes in older adults

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This prospective, observational study compares MRI images using Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) added to standard clinical MRI in adults with multiple sclerosis and in an age-matched group with cerebral small vessel disease. Participants with MS will have longitudinal follow-up during routine MRI and clinical assessments, while the cSVD group will have a single study visit with MRI and standardized testing. The aim is to see if QSM provides clearer distinction between demyelinating lesions and vascular or age-related white matter changes, potentially aiding interpretation of MRI findings in older patients with MS.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria Multiple Sclerosis (MS) cohort (AgeMS):

* Age 50-70 years
* Clinically confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
* Participation in the AgeMS study at Oslo University Hospital

Inclusion Criteria Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (cSVD) control cohort:

* Age 50-80 years
* Radiological evidence of hypertensive small vessel disease on MRI
* Good clinical recovery following transient ischemic attack (TIA), minor stroke, or stroke mimic diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria Multiple Sclerosis (MS) cohort:

* MRI contraindications
* Severe psychiatric comorbidity
* Major functional disability unrelated to MS or CSVD

Exclusion Criteria Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (cSVD) control cohort:

* MRI contraindications
* Probable or definite cerebral amyloid angiopathy according to Boston criteria 2.0
* Genetic or inflammatory vasculopathies
* Persistent neurological deficits
* Severe psychiatric comorbidity
* Major functional disability unrelated to CSVD

Where it's running

• Oslo University Hospital
  Oslo, Oslo, Norway Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Anna Therese Bjerkreim, MD PhD
• Email: anthbj@ous-hf.no
• Phone: 004797000219

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.