New hybrid technique for accurate and reproducible quantitation of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI data

The accuracy and precision of two major approaches for analyzing dynamic MRI data from the first passage of a Gd-DTPA contrast bolus are examined, using a Monte Carlo simulation. Method 1 fits the contrast concentration curve of the first pass to a two-compartment kinetic model to determine the tissue pharmacokinetic parameters. Method 2 decomposes intravascular and interstitial components of the first-pass curve based on a leakage profile (LP) model. Based on the results of these Monte Carlo simulations, a new "hybrid" method is proposed that combines both analytical approaches to optimize accuracy and precision of estimates of K(trans), v(e), and v(p). The new method was evaluated by computer simulation and used on experimental results from a patient with primary brain tumors. The new method has the potential to provide more accurate quantification of tissue plasma volume and vessel permeability.