Prostate MRI and image Quality: It is time to take stock

Yue Lin1, Enis C Yilmaz1, Mason J Belue1

  • 1Molecular Imaging Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.

Insights

Improving prostate cancer diagnosis requires high-quality multiparametric MRI (mpMRI). This review explores strategies like imaging techniques, patient preparation, PI-QUAL criteria, and AI to enhance mpMRI quality.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) is crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis and management.
  • Standardization through the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) has improved interpretation.
  • mpMRI quality is influenced by technical factors and patient-related issues like motion and rectal distension.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current evidence and strategies for improving prostate MRI quality.
  • To address the lack of consensus on optimizing mpMRI acquisition.
  • To explore advancements beyond PI-RADS for enhanced image quality.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent literature and evidence on prostate MRI quality improvement.
  • Analysis of patient preparation techniques and their impact on image acquisition.
  • Evaluation of new criteria like Prostate Imaging Quality (PI-QUAL) and the role of artificial intelligence (AI).

Main Results:

  • Patient-related factors significantly impact mpMRI quality.
  • Standardized patient preparation and advanced imaging techniques can mitigate motion and distension artifacts.
  • Emerging tools like PI-QUAL criteria and AI show promise in further optimizing image quality.

Conclusions:

  • Optimizing prostate mpMRI quality requires a multi-faceted approach addressing both technical and patient-related factors.
  • Continuous research and adoption of new strategies are essential for improving diagnostic accuracy in prostate cancer.
  • The integration of PI-QUAL and AI represents the future direction for enhancing prostate MRI quality.