Brain asymmetry and morphometric measurements of the encephalon in Van cats by magnetic resonance imaging.

Background: Brain asymmetry is defined as neuroanatomical or functional differences between the brain's left and right hemispheres. These differences can be explained as morphometric changes in regional brain size or functional changes resulting from neuronal density. Aim: This study aimed to use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the brain tissue of Van cats, obtain anatomical morphometric measurements, and examine brain asymmetry. Methods: A total of 20 healthy adult Van cats, including 10 females and 10 males, who had not undergone any surgical procedures, were included in the study. The animals were anesthetized using a combination of ketamine and xylazine. Midsagittal and dorsal cross-sectional images were acquired using an MRI scanner. Images were transferred to a workstation and processed in digital imaging and communications in medicine format. Morphometric measurements were obtained using the Enlil picture archiving and communication system radiological image processing and archiving program. Results: Statistical analysis of the morphometric measurements revealed that, with the exception of encephalon height, most parameters were significantly higher in male Van cats (p < 0.05). Additionally, the study assessed brain asymmetry in Van cats and found a general asymmetry favoring the right hemisphere (hemispherium cerebri dexter). In female Van cats, regional brain asymmetry was observed specifically toward the right frontal cortex (cortex frontalis dexter) (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides a valuable tool for defining some morphometric measurements of the sagittal and dorsal planes of the brain of Van cats and demonstrating brain asymmetry in cats.