Magnetic resonance mDixon-Quant and T2 mapping imaging study of lumbar and paravertebral muscle in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

Motivation: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) may cause changes in the patient's lumbar region, so it’s worth investigating whether AS affects the paraspinal muscles. Goal(s): To examine the changes in both the lumbar region and paraspinal muscles in AS patients, as well as any correlations between them. Approach: In this study, we utilized mDixon-Quant and T2 mapping to assess the FF and T2 values of the lumbar region and paraspinal muscles. Results: The AS group showed significantly higher FF and T2 values in the lumbar region and psoas major compared to the healthy controls, and there was a positive correlation between them. Impact: This investigation has revealed a notable correlation between changes in the paravertebral muscles and the vertebral body. Clinicians will be able to perform thorough assessments of patients with AS and develop effective treatment plans.