We review the current role of magnetic resonance (MR) volumetry as a meaningful indicator of neurodegeneration and clinical disease progression in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Based on a review of the current literature we summarize the mechanisms that contribute to brain atrophy. We present the newest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based methods used in atrophy quantification. We also analyze important biological factors which can influence the accuracy of brain atrophy evaluation. Evidence shows that measures of brain volume (BV) have the potential to be an important determinant of disease progression to a greater extent than conventional lesion assessment. Finally, scientific reports concerning limitations of MRI-based volumetry that affect its implementation into routine clinical practice are also reviewed. The technical challenges that need to be overcome include creating a standardized protocol for image acquisition - a fully automated, accurate and reproducible method that allows comparison in either single-center or multicenter settings. In the near future, quantitative MR research will probably be the basic method used in neurology to monitor the rate of atrophic processes and clinical deterioration in MS patients, and to evaluate the results of treatment.
Keywords: MR volumetry; brain atrophy; magnetic resonance imaging; multiple sclerosis (MS).