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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Longitudinal Intravital Imaging of Brain Tumor Cell Behavior in Response to an Invasive Surgical Biopsy
Published on: May 3, 2019
Intra-axial brain tumours
G Wilms1, Ph Demaerel, S Sunaert
1Department of Radiology, U.Z. Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. guido.wilms@uz.kuleuven.ac.be
Abstract:
The radiological diagnosis and differential diagnosis of intra-axial tumours no longer relies on CT scan and routine MR sequences alone. Standard multiplanar imaging has to be combined with fMRI to allow the exact anatomic location of the lesion and precise determination of the extension of the tumour. Perfusion and diffusion MR is becoming more and more important in the differential diagnosis of cerebral mass lesions and in the grading and typing of gliomas. More sophisticated techniques such as diffusion tensor imaging and spectroscopy will further enhance the value of the radiological studies.
Insights
Advanced MRI techniques like fMRI, perfusion, and diffusion imaging are crucial for accurately diagnosing and characterizing intra-axial brain tumors. These methods improve lesion localization, extent determination, and glioma grading beyond traditional imaging.
Area of Science:
- Neuroradiology
- Neuro-oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Traditional CT and routine MRI sequences are insufficient for comprehensive intra-axial tumor diagnosis.
- Accurate tumor localization and assessment of extent are critical for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the evolving role of advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques in the radiological diagnosis of intra-axial tumors.
- To emphasize the importance of functional and advanced MRI sequences in improving diagnostic accuracy and tumor characterization.
Main Methods:
- Integration of functional MRI (fMRI) with standard multiplanar imaging.
- Utilization of perfusion and diffusion MRI for differential diagnosis and glioma grading.
- Exploration of advanced techniques like diffusion tensor imaging and spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Advanced MRI techniques provide superior anatomical localization and precise determination of tumor extension.
- Perfusion and diffusion MRI are increasingly vital for differentiating cerebral mass lesions and grading gliomas.
- Sophisticated MRI methods enhance the overall diagnostic value in neuroradiology.
Conclusions:
- The diagnosis and differential diagnosis of intra-axial tumors now necessitate advanced MRI techniques beyond conventional imaging.
- Functional, perfusion, diffusion, and advanced tensor imaging significantly improve the characterization and management of brain tumors.
- Future advancements in MRI will further refine radiological assessments of intracranial neoplasms.

