Dynamic contrast-enhanced perfusion MR imaging measurements of endothelial permeability: differentiation between

Stanley Yang1, Meng Law, David Zagzag

  • 1Department of Radiology/Division of Neuroradiology, New York University Medical Center, NY, USA.

Abstract

Insights

Dynamic contrast-enhanced perfusion MRI (DCE-pMRI) can differentiate brain tumors. The volume transfer constant (K(trans)) measured using DCE-pMRI effectively distinguishes atypical meningiomas from typical ones.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroradiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Meningiomas are common primary brain tumors.
  • Accurate differentiation between typical and atypical meningiomas is crucial for treatment planning.
  • Dynamic contrast-enhanced perfusion MRI (DCE-pMRI) offers quantitative perfusion parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the utility of relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) and volume transfer constant (K(trans)) in differentiating typical and atypical meningiomas.
  • To assess the role of DCE-pMRI in characterizing meningioma subtypes.

Main Methods:

  • Fifteen typical and seven atypical meningiomas underwent DCE-pMRI before surgical resection.
  • Relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) was calculated using standard algorithms.
  • Volume transfer constant (K(trans)) was derived using a novel pharmacokinetic modeling (PM) algorithm.

Main Results:

  • Mean K(trans) was significantly higher in atypical meningiomas (0.0066 s⁻¹) compared to typical meningiomas (0.0016 s⁻¹; P <.01).
  • Mean rCBV values showed a trend towards higher values in atypical meningiomas but did not reach statistical significance.
  • Other PM-derived parameters, including plasma volume and extravascular extracellular space, were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusions:

  • DCE-pMRI, particularly K(trans) measurement, shows promise for prospective meningioma characterization.
  • K(trans) is a valuable parameter for distinguishing atypical meningiomas from typical meningiomas.
  • Further studies are warranted to confirm the clinical utility of DCE-pMRI in meningioma management.