[The value of in-vivo 31-phosphorus spectroscopy in the diagnosis of generalized muscular diseases. The clinical results and the differential diagnostic aspects].

OBJECTIVE

In a prospective study, characteristics and the diagnostic potential of in vivo 31-phosphorus spectroscopy in cases of generalised muscle diseases were analysed.

METHODS

41 patients with myogenic and neurogenic muscle diseases and 11 healthy volunteers were examined using MRI and in vivo 31-phosphorus spectroscopy by means of a 50 mm double-tuned surface coil.

RESULTS

The spectra showed significant changes of the metabolite ratios depending on the degree of the disease. Inflammatory muscle diseases were characterised by increased PME and PDE peaks, which indicates that there is a higher conversion of the cell membrane. The spectra of muscular dystrophy showed a slight increase of PDE and Pi. A strongly reduced PCr and an increased Pi peak were demonstrated in cases of muscle atrophy depending on their degree of markedness. The pH values were minimally increased in comparison to the volunteers. In other muscle diseases, such as glycogenosis or myotonia, no significant changes were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Standardised in vivo 31-phosphorus spectroscopy of generalised muscle diseases provides noninvasive prognostic information on the type and behaviour of the disease and is complementary to clinical and histological findings.