Quantitative MRI and spectroscopy of bone marrow

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Radiology
• Bone Biology

Background:

• Bone marrow is a vital organ containing stem cells crucial for blood and bone cell production.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides excellent soft-tissue contrast for monitoring bone marrow.
• Quantitative MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) enable precise measurement of bone marrow composition and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review proton-based quantitative MRI and MRS studies of bone marrow published up to March 2017.
• To describe technical aspects of quantitative MR methods for bone marrow analysis.
• To summarize applications of quantitative MR techniques in healthy aging and various bone marrow pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature focusing on quantitative proton MRI and MRS of bone marrow.
• Description of technical principles for measuring water-fat composition, fatty acid composition, perfusion, and diffusion.
• Synthesis of findings from studies on bone marrow in aging and diseases like osteoporosis, fractures, metabolic disorders, multiple myeloma, and bone metastases.

Main Results:

• Quantitative MRI and MRS are effective tools for assessing bone marrow changes.
• These techniques allow quantification of water-fat, fatty acid composition, perfusion, and diffusion.
• Applications span healthy aging and diverse pathologies including osteoporosis, fractures, and cancers.

Conclusions:

• Proton-based quantitative MRI and MRS are essential for understanding bone marrow anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology.
• These advanced MR techniques aid in diagnosing and monitoring bone marrow conditions.
• Further research utilizing quantitative MR methods will enhance our understanding of systemic diseases affecting bone marrow.