Quantitative T1 brain mapping in early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: longitudinal changes, lesion heterogeneity and disability

Abstract

• Quantitative T₁ mapping detects brain microstructural damage and lesion heterogeneity in recently diagnosed relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. • T₁ increases in lesions and normal-appearing parenchyma, indicating microstructural damage, are associated with worsening disability. • Brain T₁ measures are objective markers of disability-relevant pathology in early multiple sclerosis.