Preliminary Study on Axonal Integrity in Pediatric Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease Using NODDI Technology

Motivation: MOGAD is a demyelinating condition predomiannce in children that may cause neurological impairment. To date, no study has used NODDI model to analyze pediatric MOGAD. Goal(s): To evaluate white matter microstructure and axonal integrity in pediatric MOGAD patients and investigate correlations between NODDI metrics and clinical scores. Approach: Using NODDI and DTI techniques, we analyzed MRI data from 22 MOGAD patients and 26 healthy controls, applying TBSS analysis to compare NODDI and DTI metrics. Results: Our results revealed extensive microstructural damage in MOGAD patients. Increased ODI values in specific brain regions correlate with greater clinical disability, confirming axonal integrity impairment in these patients. Impact: We demonstrated that NODDI is a better technique for assessing axonal damage in pediatric MOGAD compared to DTI, improving diagnosis and treatment monitoring. This allows investigation of axonal damage, enhancing patient outcomes and refining treatment strategies for pediatric demyelination diseases.