Elmukashfi's Protocol for Hippocampal Volumetry; 2022

There is a relation between many neuropsychiatric disorders and reduction in hippocampal volume. So, a protocol for researches in this area is highly needed. Study aimed to design and validate a protocol for hippocampal volumetry to facilitate manual segmentation of hippocampus region. It was a comparative study, carried at Diagnostic Imaging Clinic at Elmoalem Hospital; where 65 Sudanese individuals were surveyed in period (December 2021 –April 2022). Data was collected through master sheet for sociodemographic information, 3D magnetic resonance imaging for measuring hippocampus volume, and imaging acquisition. Software for measurements 3D slicer version (4.11) was used, where hippocampus is mapped by delineating its boundaries. Protocol was composed of mapping hippocampus.

Mapping hippocampus: identify sagittal view, lateral fissure, temporal horn of lateral ventricle, hippocampus region, temporal and occipital horn of lateral ventricle, choroid plexus of lateral ventricle. Among these slides hippocampus has been delineated.

Statistical Computing: Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. Reliability test was performed by obtaining Cronbach’s alpha. Protocol considered reliable if value of Cronbach’s alpha is close to (+1). P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Validation of Protocol: Calculation of hippocampus volume is valid as total volume correlates strongly with both right and left measurements (correlation coefficient 0.76 and 0.87 respectively and p-value <0.001).

Reliability test was 0.85; which was close to (+1).

Conclusion and recommendation: This protocol represents a valid, reliable, and applicable method for measuring hippocampal volume. It could be a step to develop an international standard protocol for hippocampal volumetry.