Tumor characterization using unconventional MR modalities

This article reviews many of the promising new magnetic resonance (MR) modalities for the characterization of tumor structure and metabolism, excluding 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). The report focuses on recent work with localized proton MRS, MR imaging of diffusion and perfusion, and work on imaging bound pools of sodium ions. The technical problems associated with these methods are discussed, along with the unique information each provides. Many of these techniques have already been used in studies of human disease, or are of sufficient importance that clinical applications are imminent.