Morphometric studies using neuroimaging.

The contemporary revolution in computerized information processing has enabled the development of methods to quantitate brain morphology in vivo, especially through the analysis of MR imaging. The first brain morphometric studies employed a planimetric approach, usually assessing the cross-sectional areas of midline structures such as the corpus callosum. Subsequently, computer-assisted methods have been developed to quantitate brain volumes, and to segment the white and gray matter and cerebrospinal fluid compartments of the brain. Studies of Tourette, Turner, Down, and Williams syndromes also demonstrate methods that have been used for the morphometry of specific regions within the cerebrum and cerebellum. Although there remain some important issues regarding the interpretation of morphometric results, technological progress will continue to advance the power and availability of brain morphometry. Morphometric data may soon provide useful diagnostic and prognostic information for the practice of pediatric neurogenetics.