Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a completely noninvasive technique which allows the detection of brain metabolites’ concentrations in vivo. Brain metabolites are involved in energy processes, neuronal and membrane health, and in neurotransmission. The possibility of identifying changes in their concentration may open the way to early diagnosis and treatment evaluation in various pathologies. In this chapter, the main principles behind brain MRS are briefly discussed, together with an overview of the primary clinical applications. Moreover, some concepts about data acquisition and processing are discussed, with the aim of facilitating MRS spectra analysis and interpretation.