NeuroQuant Imaging: What It Is and How It Measures the Brain
Updated: 4 days ago
NeuroQuant is FDA-cleared software that measures the size of different parts of the brain from an MRI scan. It compares those measurements to people of the same age and sex, so your doctor can see whether an area looks smaller than expected. It does not replace a regular brain MRI. It adds numbers to the pictures.
This guide explains what NeuroQuant is, how it works, when doctors order it, and what to expect if your doctor sends you for a NeuroQuant brain MRI at Millenium MRI.
What is NeuroQuant?
A standard brain MRI gives the radiologist detailed pictures of the brain. The radiologist looks at those pictures and describes what they see, such as a lesion, bleeding, a tumor, or a change in shape.
NeuroQuant takes the same MRI images and runs them through software. The software outlines key brain structures and measures their volume. Brain volume simply means how much tissue is in a certain area. Some of the areas it measures include:
The hippocampus, a structure deep in the brain that plays a big role in memory
The ventricles, the fluid-filled spaces inside the brain
Other regions of gray and white matter
The result is a report with numbers and percentiles, not just a description. That makes it easier to see small changes that may be hard to judge by eye alone.
How does NeuroQuant work?
From the patient's side, a NeuroQuant exam feels like a normal brain MRI. Behind the scenes, there are a few extra steps.
The MRI scan. You have a brain MRI. A special high-detail sequence is added so the software has the right kind of images. This usually adds only a few minutes.
Automated analysis. The images are sent to the NeuroQuant software. It separates the brain into regions and measures each one.
Comparison to a reference group. Each measurement is compared to a database of healthy people, adjusted for age, sex, and head size.
A structured report. The software creates a report showing each measurement and whether it falls in the expected range.
Radiologist review. A radiologist reviews both the regular MRI pictures and the NeuroQuant data, then writes one combined report for your doctor.
The software does not make a diagnosis. It gives your doctor and the radiologist more information to work with.
Why do doctors order NeuroQuant?
Doctors may order a NeuroQuant brain MRI when they want measurable data about brain structure. Common reasons include:
Memory loss and dementia concerns. Shrinkage of the hippocampus and nearby areas can be one sign seen in Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. Measuring it can support a doctor's evaluation.
Mild cognitive impairment. When someone has mild memory or thinking changes, repeat scans can show whether brain volume is holding steady or declining.
Traumatic brain injury. After a head injury, volume measurements may help document changes in brain structure and track recovery over time.
Multiple sclerosis. In MS, doctors may use volume measurements to watch for brain atrophy, which means loss of brain tissue, along with the lesions seen on regular MRI. Learn more in our guide to MRI and multiple sclerosis.
Epilepsy. Measurements may help point out structural differences, such as in the hippocampus, that can be linked to seizures.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus. Measuring the ventricles and other structures can help doctors tell this condition apart from other causes of memory and walking problems.
Your doctor decides whether NeuroQuant is right for you based on your symptoms, history, and other tests.
NeuroQuant vs. a standard brain MRI
Feature | Standard brain MRI | NeuroQuant brain MRI |
What you get | Detailed pictures and a written report | Pictures, a written report, and volume measurements |
Best for | Finding lesions, bleeding, tumors, and other visible changes | Measuring brain structures and tracking change over time |
Who reads it | Radiologist | Radiologist, using the software report |
Patient experience | Normal MRI | Normal MRI with a few extra minutes |
The two work together. The pictures show what the brain looks like. The numbers show how specific parts measure and whether they are changing.
Benefits of NeuroQuant
Objective numbers. Measurements add a layer of data on top of what the radiologist sees.
A baseline for the future. A first scan gives your doctor a starting point to compare against later.
Tracking change over time. Repeat scans can show whether volume is stable, slowly changing, or changing faster.
Easier conversations. Clear numbers and charts can make results easier for doctors to explain to patients and families.
Limits to keep in mind
NeuroQuant is a helpful tool, but it has limits.
It does not diagnose a disease by itself. Brain volume can be affected by many things, including normal aging.
Results must be read along with your symptoms, medical history, exam, and other tests.
Not every imaging center offers it. Millenium MRI offers NeuroQuant at all seven of our centers.
Motion during the scan can affect the measurements, so lying still matters. See what happens if you move during an MRI.
What to expect at your appointment
A NeuroQuant MRI is done much like any other brain MRI.
Before the scan: Bring your doctor's order, your ID and insurance card, and any prior brain MRI reports or images. Prior scans help with comparison.
Safety screening: You will be asked about implants, pacemakers, metal in the body, pregnancy, and past surgeries. Tell the team about anything you're unsure of.
What to wear: Comfortable clothes with no metal. Leave jewelry, watches, and hair clips at home.
During the scan: You lie on a padded table with your head in a coil that helps take clear pictures. The machine is loud, so you'll get ear protection. The technologist can talk with you the whole time.
Contrast: Your doctor decides if contrast dye is needed for the clinical question.
MRI uses magnets and radio waves, not X-rays, so there is no ionizing radiation. If you feel nervous in tight spaces, read our tips on overcoming claustrophobia during an MRI.
Understanding your results
A board-certified radiologist reviews your images and the NeuroQuant data and sends one report to your doctor. At Millenium MRI, results are usually sent to the referring doctor within 24 hours. Your doctor will go over the results with you and explain any next steps.
For help with common words in your report, see our guide on how to understand your brain MRI terms. You can also learn more on our NeuroQuant page.
Frequently asked questions
Is NeuroQuant safe?
Yes. It uses a standard MRI scan, which does not use radiation. The analysis is done by software after the scan. The usual MRI safety screening for metal and implants still applies.
How long does a NeuroQuant MRI take?
It takes about as long as a regular brain MRI, plus a few minutes for the extra sequence. Plan extra time for check-in and safety screening.
Do I need to prepare in a special way?
No special preparation is usually needed beyond normal MRI steps, such as removing metal. Follow any instructions from your doctor or the scheduling team.
Can NeuroQuant diagnose Alzheimer's disease?
No. It provides measurements that can support a doctor's evaluation. A diagnosis is based on your symptoms, exam, history, and other tests together.
How often should NeuroQuant be repeated?
That depends on your condition and your doctor's plan. Some people have repeat scans to track change over time. Your doctor will decide the timing.
Do I need a doctor's order?
If you're using insurance, yes, a NeuroQuant brain MRI needs an order from your doctor. If you pay cash (self-pay), no referral is needed at Millenium MRI.
Related reading
Schedule an MRI at Millenium MRI
NeuroQuant brain MRI is available at all seven Millenium MRI centers in Ocala, Largo, and Tamarac, Florida, and in Jonesboro, Marion, North Little Rock, and Springdale, Arkansas. Our board-certified radiologists and ARRT-certified technologists are here to help, and same-day appointments are often available. We accept most insurance plans, workers' compensation, personal injury cases, and self-pay. Call your nearest center to ask about NeuroQuant brain MRI, or request an appointment online.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific situation.
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