[Multiparametric imaging with simultaneous MRI/PET: Methodological aspects and possible clinical applications]

Combined MRI/PET enables the acquisition of a variety of imaging parameters during one examination, including anatomical and functional information such as perfusion, diffusion, and metabolism.

The present article summarizes these methods and their applications in multiparametric imaging via MRI/PET.

Numerous studies have shown that the combination of these parameters can improve diagnostic accuracy for many applications, including the imaging of oncological, neurological, and inflammatory conditions. Because of the amount and the complexity of the acquired multiparametric data, there is a need for advanced analysis tools, such as methods of parameter selection and data classification.

Currently, the clinical application of this process still has limitations. On the one hand, software for the fast calculation and standardized evaluation of the imaging data acquired is still lacking. On the other hand, there are deficiencies when comparing the results because of a lack of standardization of the assessment and diagnostic procedure.