Microstructural Abnormalities of Grey Matter and White Matter in Children with Basic-type Intermittent Exotropia using NODDI Technology

Motivation: Intermittent exotropia (IXT) is quite common in children. The exact pathogenesis is not clear, which makes it difficult to make early diagnosis and evaluate progression. Goal(s): To investigate the microstructural changes in vivo in children with IXT and explore the potential neuropathological mechanisms. Approach: 31 IXT children and 37 controls were enrolled. Brain gray matter (GM) and the white matter (WM) regions extracted from their whole-brain MRI data were compared using the NODDI technology and TBSS method. Results: Microstructural changes in GM and WM between the two groups were found, located in the visual perception and oculomotor control associated areas. Impact: The parameters derived from NODDI can demonstrate the microstructural abnormalities in primary, advanced visual center and oculomotor center pathway, which maybe a potential tool in diagnosis and evaluation the IXT patients.