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Published on: June 23, 2015
Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Evaluate Kidney Structure, Function, and Pathology: Moving Toward Clinical Application
Susan T Francis1, Nicholas M Selby2, Maarten W Taal2
1Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Nottingham, Nottingham.
Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a noninvasive way to assess kidney health. Specific MRI measures show promise in detecting kidney damage and predicting function decline.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Multiparametric MRI enables comprehensive kidney assessment in one session.
- Existing diagnostic methods for kidney disease have limitations.
- Interpretation of MRI measures is complex due to study variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of multiparametric MRI for noninvasive kidney assessment.
- To identify MRI measures associated with kidney damage and function.
- To evaluate the clinical utility of multiparametric MRI in nephrology.
Main Methods:
- Utilized diffusion-weighted imaging, T1 and T2 mapping, and BOLD MRI.
- Collected quantitative measures of kidney morphology, microstructure, oxygenation, blood flow, and perfusion.
- Analyzed data from animal and clinical studies.
Main Results:
- Apparent diffusion coefficient, T1/T2 mapping, and cortical perfusion correlate with kidney damage and predict function decline.
- Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) MRI shows inconsistent damage association but predicts function decline.
- Multiparametric MRI demonstrates potential for noninvasive, noncontrast, radiation-free kidney evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Multiparametric MRI is a promising tool for assessing kidney structure and function.
- Further research is needed to overcome barriers to clinical adoption.
- Standardization, larger evidence base, and health economic evaluation are crucial for widespread use.
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