Metastasis Reporting and Data System for Prostate Cancer in Practice.

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging Science
• Oncology
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Whole-body MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is a recommended radiation-free modality.
• It is used for assessing bone and soft tissue pathology and treatment response.
• Advanced prostate cancer frequently involves metastases requiring effective monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize and illustrate the Metastasis Reporting and Data System (ME.R.A.DS.) for prostate cancer.
• To provide minimum standards for whole-body MRI with DWI in metastatic prostate cancer.
• To guide image acquisition, interpretation, and reporting for baseline and follow-up examinations.

Main Methods:

• A case-based approach was used to illustrate the ME.R.A.DS. protocol.
• Focus on standardized image acquisition parameters for whole-body MRI with DWI.
• Standardized interpretation criteria and reporting templates for metastatic prostate cancer.

Main Results:

• The ME.R.A.DS. provides a framework for consistent whole-body MRI with DWI.
• Illustrations demonstrate the application of ME.R.A.DS. in real patient cases.
• The system facilitates standardized assessment of metastatic burden and treatment response.

Conclusions:

• The ME.R.A.DS. is crucial for standardized whole-body MRI with DWI in advanced prostate cancer.
• Adherence to ME.R.A.DS. improves reliability in monitoring metastatic disease.
• This system enhances the utility of radiation-free imaging for prostate cancer management.