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Emerging quantitative MR imaging biomarkers in inflammatory arthritides
Anouk M Barendregt1, Timothy J P Bray2, Margaret A Hall-Craggs2
1Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Radiology, University College London Hospital, 235 Euston Rd, NW12BU, London, United Kingdom.
Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) offers objective assessment of inflammation in connective tissues and skeleton for inflammatory arthritis. These advanced imaging biomarkers can improve diagnosis and patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Radiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Inflammatory arthritis affects connective tissues and skeleton.
- Accurate imaging of inflammation is crucial for diagnosis and management.
- Conventional MRI has limitations in quantifying inflammatory changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) methods for imaging inflammation in inflammatory arthritis.
- To discuss technical and clinical perspectives of qMRI for skeletal inflammation.
- To provide a resource for radiologists, imaging technologists, and rheumatologists.
Main Methods:
- Review of qMRI techniques for imaging synovium, cartilage, bone, tendons, and entheses.
- Critical appraisal of evidence from adult and pediatric inflammatory arthritis studies.
- Discussion of technical aspects and clinical applications of qMRI.
Main Results:
- qMRI can objectively identify, characterize, and quantify inflammation in connective tissues and skeleton.
- qMRI-derived measurements serve as reproducible and informative imaging biomarkers.
- Several qMRI methods are progressing towards clinical practice for improved diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusions:
- qMRI enables specific assessment of inflammation in key joint structures.
- qMRI facilitates a more consistent and personalized approach to disease management.
- Potential for improved patient outcomes through enhanced diagnostic and monitoring capabilities.
