Probing tumor microvascularity by measurement, analysis and display of contrast agent uptake kinetics

J Magn Reson Imaging. 1997 May-Jun;7(3):564-74. doi: 10.1002/jmri.1880070318.

Abstract

This paper describes a measurement protocol for acquiring quantitative dynamic MRI data and novel analysis and display software (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Workbench (MRIW)). Proton density-weighted and T1-weighted two-dimensional gradient echo images are used to quantify tissue contrast agent concentration. The dynamic studies last approximately 7 minutes, with 10-second temporal resolution. Analyses of signal and concentration changes with time are performed, allowing capillary permeability-surface area product, tissue leakage space, enhancement onset time, mean enhancement gradient and maximum enhancement level to be mapped as false-color parametric overlays registered with anatomic images. Quantification of permeability and leakage space provides a method for comparing physiology in patients between visits or for intersite comparisons.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Astrocytoma / blood supply*
  • Astrocytoma / diagnosis
  • Brain Neoplasms / blood supply*
  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Computer Graphics
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Contrast Media / pharmacokinetics*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Echo-Planar Imaging / methods*
  • Gadolinium DTPA
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Male
  • Microcirculation / physiology
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Organometallic Compounds / administration & dosage
  • Organometallic Compounds / pharmacokinetics*
  • Pentetic Acid / administration & dosage
  • Pentetic Acid / analogs & derivatives*
  • Pentetic Acid / pharmacokinetics
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / blood supply*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Software*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Organometallic Compounds
  • Pentetic Acid
  • Gadolinium DTPA