Ultrasonic tissue characterization as a predictor of white matter damage: results of a preliminary study

Premature infants are prone to white matter damage (WMD), which is associated with cerebral palsy (CP) and cognitive impairment. Ultrasound (US) is the preferred imaging modality to detect WMD. To improve on existing diagnostic rates, quantitative measures incorporating new information are needed. We are investigating US texture measures as new indicators of white matter health. We have developed algorithms to enhance texture features and then obtain a measure of the tissue texture. Using our texture measures, data from 18 patients (12 with normal outcome, 6 who developed CP) form separate populations based on patient outcome. Our algorithms are applied to B-mode cranial US images without compensating for operator-dependent machine settings and without suppressing speckle. The results of the preliminary study are intended to form the basis for the design of a computer aided diagnosis system for the early detection of white matter damage.