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Magnetic resonance imaging findings in acute pulmonary embolism
B Hochhegger1, J Ley-Zaporozhan, E Marchiori
1Santa Casa de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil. brunohochhegger@gmail.com
Abstract:
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most common acute cardiovascular disease after myocardial infarction and stroke, and results in thousands of deaths each year. Improvements in MRI accuracy are ongoing with the use of parallel imaging for angiography techniques and pulmonary perfusion. This, associated with other potential advantages of MRI (e.g. a radiation free method and better safety profile of MR contrast media), reinforces its use. The aim of this paper is to perform a pictorial review of the principal findings of MRI in acute PE. Acute PE can manifest itself as complete arterial occlusion and the affected artery may be enlarged. We report the main vascular and parenchymal signs, and an overview of current literature regarding accuracy, limitations and technical aspects is provided.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a radiation-free method for diagnosing acute pulmonary embolism (PE). This review highlights key MRI findings, including arterial occlusion and enlargement, for improved acute cardiovascular disease detection.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Radiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a leading cause of acute cardiovascular death.
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of PE is critical for patient outcomes.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an evolving diagnostic tool for PE.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a pictorial review of MRI findings in acute PE.
- To illustrate vascular and parenchymal signs of acute PE on MRI.
- To summarize current literature on MRI accuracy, limitations, and techniques for PE.
Main Methods:
- Review of principal MRI findings in acute PE.
- Focus on parallel imaging for angiography and pulmonary perfusion.
- Discussion of vascular and parenchymal signs.
Main Results:
- Acute PE can present as complete arterial occlusion.
- Enlargement of the affected pulmonary artery is a potential sign.
- MRI demonstrates specific vascular and parenchymal abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- MRI is a valuable, radiation-free imaging modality for acute PE.
- Ongoing improvements in MRI techniques enhance diagnostic accuracy.
- MRI offers a favorable safety profile for contrast media in PE diagnosis.
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