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[MR contrast media for cardiovascular imaging]
G A Krombach1, C B Higgins, R W Günther
1Department of Radiology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA.
Abstract:
MR contrast media improve the diagnostic capability of MRI and MRA. They are used in the discrimination of viable and non-viable myocardium, transmural and non-transmural infarction, occlusive and reperfused infarction and for measurement of myocardial perfusion. Currently, clinical studies are almost completely restricted to the use of extracellular non-specific MR contrast media (i. e., Gd-DTPA, Gd-DTPA,-BMA, Gd-BOPTA, Gd-D03A). However, the feasibility of using intravascular, necrosis specific or intracellular MR contrast media or endogeneous substrates as specific MR contrast media in cardiovascular imaging has been demonstrated in experimental and a few clinical studies. Intravascular contrast media (i. e., MS-325 or NC100150 Injection) allow assessment of microvascular integrity and performance of MR angiography. Necrosis specific contrast media (i. e., Gadophrin-2) have been used for sizing the extent of infarcted myocardium while intracellular contrast media (i. e., Mn-DPDP) delineate viable myocardium. Endogenous contrast media (i. e., Deoxyhemoglobin, Na (+) or K (+)) have been tested for detecting the alterations in concentrations of these ions in infarcted myocardium and for perfusion measurements. Furthermore, intravascular MR contrast media may be useful for MRA and MRI guided cardiovascular interventions.
Insights
MR contrast media enhance MRI and MRA diagnostics for heart conditions. Emerging intravascular, necrosis-specific, and intracellular agents offer improved myocardial assessment and interventions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Contrast Media
Context:
- Current clinical MRI and MRA studies primarily use extracellular, non-specific contrast agents like Gd-DTPA.
- These agents are crucial for differentiating myocardial viability, infarction types, and measuring perfusion.
- Limitations exist in current contrast media applications for complex cardiovascular assessments.
Purpose:
- To explore the feasibility and applications of novel MR contrast media in cardiovascular imaging.
- To evaluate intravascular, necrosis-specific, intracellular, and endogenous contrast agents.
- To expand diagnostic capabilities beyond current extracellular agents.
Summary:
- Experimental and clinical studies demonstrate the potential of intravascular, necrosis-specific, intracellular, and endogenous contrast media for cardiovascular MRI and MRA.
- Intravascular agents (e.g., MS-325) assess microvascular integrity and aid MR angiography.
- Necrosis-specific agents (e.g., Gadophrin-2) size myocardial infarcts, while intracellular agents (e.g., Mn-DPDP) delineate viable myocardium.
Impact:
- Novel contrast media promise enhanced diagnostic accuracy in cardiovascular imaging.
- These agents facilitate detailed assessment of myocardial perfusion, integrity, and infarct extent.
- Potential for improved MRI/MRA guided cardiovascular interventions and personalized treatment strategies.