Magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate: interpretation using the PI-RADS V2

Version 2 of the Prostate Imaging and Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) was developed to help in the detection, location, and characterization of prostate cancer with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Its recommendations for standardizing image acquisition parameters aims to reduce variability in the interpretation of MRI studies of the prostate; this approach, together with structured reporting, has the added value of improving communication among radiologists and between radiologists and urologists. This article aims to explain the PI-RADS v2 classification in a simple way, using illustrative images for each of the categories, as well as to recommend the use of a standard technique that helps ensure the reproducibility of multiparametric MRI.

The PI-RADS v2 is simple to appy when reading multiparametric MRI studies of the prostate. It is important for radiologists doing prostate imaging to use the PI-RADS v2 in daily practice to write clear and concise reports that improve communication between radiologists and urologists.