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PedsCrit

Neuroimaging for the Pediatric Intensivist with Dr. Ilyse Genser -- Part 2

Mar 17, 2025
Ilyse Genser, a pediatric neurologist and associate program director at Children's National Hospital, delves into the fascinating world of neuroimaging for critically ill children. She discusses the vital role of MRI with contrast in diagnosing conditions like encephalitis and the nuances of using FLAIR sequences for post-infectious disorders. Ilyse also tackles diagnosis challenges in pediatric mastoiditis, highlighting innovative imaging strategies, and wraps up with her favorite ice cream spots, blending medical insights with a dash of fun.
15:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Contrast administration during MRI is vital in differentiating conditions like encephalitis, influencing diagnostic approaches in critically ill pediatric patients.
  • Different MRI sequences, such as FLARE and DWI, play crucial roles in diagnosing diverse neurological conditions, enhancing recognition and management of pathologies.

Deep dives

Key Indications for MRI Contrast in Neurology

Contrast administration during an MRI is crucial when evaluating potential tumors, infections, inflammation, or demyelination. For instance, in cases of suspected encephalitis, as indicated by symptoms like headache and altered mental status, MRI with contrast can help differentiate between infectious and post-infectious conditions. The importance of contrast is also underscored in instances of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), where inflammation can lead to characteristic changes visible on specific MRI sequences. Overall, these key indications guide clinicians in selecting appropriate imaging strategies to enhance diagnostic accuracy in critical pediatric cases.

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