MRI Sequence Performance for Central Vein Sign Detection in MS
A study involving 20 participants with multiple sclerosis evaluated the detection rates of the central vein sign (CVS) using three MRI sequences: GRE T2*, SWI, and 3D EPI T2*. No significant differences in detection rates were found among the sequences, but all showed high agreement between raters. Slightly lower detection rates were noted for the 3D EPI T2* due to resolution limits, while SWI missed some lesions because of poor tissue contrast.
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Why it matters
While the study indicates that all three MRI sequences perform similarly in detecting CVS, it does not identify a superior sequence for use in clinical practice. Understanding the efficacy of these MRI techniques is crucial for optimizing diagnostic approaches in MS patients.
What this does not prove
The study does not establish which MRI sequence is optimal for CVS detection due to the lack of significant differences. It also does not assess long-term outcomes or clinical relevance of the findings for MS diagnosis.
Next milestone
No next milestone was established from the available source.
Study facts
- Study design
- Not reported
- Participants / samples
- 20 · basis not reported
- Randomised
- Not reported
- Controlled
- Not reported
- Primary endpoint met
- Not reported
- Relevant MS type
- Not reported
- Publication date
- 2026-09-23
- Evidence reviewed
- Abstract only
- Regulatory approval
- Not reported
- Research areas
- Not classified
Original sources
- Primary evidenceComparative performance of 7T MRI sequences for central vein sign detection in multiple sclerosis: a prospective study. ↗DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2026.107940
Supporting passages (7)
findingsAll sequences showed excellent inter-rater (κ ≥ 0.935) and intra-rater (κ ≥ 0.961) agreement.
sample size20 participants with MS were prospectively recruited from the Chinese National Registry of Neuroinflammatory Diseases (CNRID) and scanned on a 7T MRI scanner using three sequences.
primary endpointLesion-level detection rates and inter-/intra-rater reliability were evaluated using the Friedman test and Cohen's kappa.
findingsNo significant differences were found in CVS detection rates across the three sequences (GRE T2*: 780; SWI: 771; 3D EPI T2*: 777; P = 0.082).
findingsSlightly lower detection with 3D EPI T2* was attributed to resolution limitations, while SWI missed lesions mainly due to insufficient tissue contrast.
publication datePublication date: 2026-09-23
limitationsTitle: Comparative performance of 7T MRI sequences for central vein sign detection in multiple sclerosis: a prospective study.
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