Perspectum Ltd
University College London

Using quantitative MRI to reveal changes in a rare neurological disease

Superficial siderosis is a rare, progressive neurological condition caused by persistent or repeated bleeding around the brain and spinal cord. Toxic iron deposits gradually accumulate, damaging nerve tissue and causing symptoms ranging from hearing loss and balance problems to severe disability. Conventional MRI scans often fail to reveal subtle disease progression, making it difficult for clinicians to judge when the benefits of intervention outweigh the risks of treatment or irreversible damage from delaying care

Susannah’s project will develop quantitative MRI methods to detect and measure subtle changes in iron accumulation and neuronal loss. Using techniques such as quantitative susceptibility mapping and tissue volume measurements, the research aims to track disease progression over time. This could provide clinicians with more objective evidence of deterioration, helping them identify when earlier intervention may be appropriate and supporting more informed treatment decisions.

The research could also improve monitoring of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), a potential side effect of antibody treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. By detecting subtle changes in bleeding and brain swelling, the project could support safer treatment monitoring and more proactive, personalised neurological care. The work brings academic research and industry expertise together to explore how quantitative imaging could contribute to more personalised patient care.