MRI of the lung (3/3)-current applications and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly recommended for various lung conditions.
• It offers a crucial non-radiation imaging alternative, particularly beneficial for pediatric and pregnant populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the advantages and limitations of lung MRI in current clinical practice.
• To highlight its role as a complementary or alternative imaging modality.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes customized chest imaging protocols combining fast breath-hold acquisitions.
• Employs a variety of MRI sequences tailored for lung imaging.

Main Results:

• Lung MRI provides additional functional information on respiratory mechanics and perfusion.
• It demonstrates diagnostic value comparable to other modalities for tumors and pneumonia in children.
• Its clinical utility in interstitial lung disease is under investigation but shows research potential.

Conclusions:

• MRI is evolving as a third major lung imaging modality, integrating morphological and functional data.
• It is considered a primary choice for cystic fibrosis and pulmonary embolism in specific patient groups.
• Future developments include motion-compensated and fast Fourier decomposition MRI for advanced imaging.