Modern methods for the diagnosis of central nervous system diseases (MRI, CT, EEG)

Abstract

Modern diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) diseases relies on combining structural imaging (CT, MRI) with functional and electrophysiological methods (EEG). CT is fast and widely available, making it the first-line tool in many emergencies (e.g., suspected hemorrhage, major trauma). MRI provides superior soft-tissue contrast and higher sensitivity for many parenchymal pathologies, including early ischemia, inflammation, tumors, and demyelination. EEG captures real-time brain electrical activity and is essential for seizure detection, epilepsy classification, encephalopathy evaluation, and ICU monitoring. Advanced neuroimaging—such as CT/MR angiography and perfusion imaging, diffusion techniques (DWI/DTI), functional MRI, PET/SPECT, and MR spectroscopy—adds vascular, metabolic, connectivity, and biochemical information that improves differential diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. Optimal diagnostic pathways depend on clinical context (acute vs chronic), suspected pathology (vascular, infectious, neoplastic, degenerative), patient factors (age, implants, renal function), and safety considerations (radiation exposure, contrast risks).