Diffusion-weighted technique measuring anisotropic diffusion along white matter tracts
Expansion
Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Purpose
Maps white matter tracts (tractography) and quantifies fractional anisotropy for fibre integrity assessment
Clinical Context
DTI applies diffusion gradients along 6 or more directions enabling tensor calculation. FA (fractional anisotropy) and MD (mean diffusivity) quantify white matter integrity. Useful in stroke outcome prediction.
Related Terms
- DWI
- Fibre tracking
- White matter
Key Points
- DTI shows white matter tracts in 3D; fractional anisotropy (FA) reduced in stroke, dementia, and tumour infiltration