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Fast-field-echo MR imaging with Gd-DTPA: physiologic evaluation of the kidney and liver
Abstract:
To determine if magnetic resonance imaging with Gd-DTPA could be used to assess renal and hepatic perfusion and possibly function, a fast-field-echo technique was used to perform sequential imaging of the kidney and liver of five subjects. Sixteen 3-second images of the same section were obtained at 13-second intervals immediately after Gd-DTPA administration, and again at 30 or 50 minutes after injection. From these images, curves of renal and hepatic signal versus time were generated. In each case the renal signal intensity peaked within 2 minutes and decreased to 60% or less by 3.4 minutes, and 35% or less by 50 minutes. Hepatic curves peaked within 2 minutes and approached initial levels by 30 minutes. These results suggest that transit and clearance of the contrast agent can be imaged by this technique.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) can image renal and hepatic perfusion. This technique effectively visualizes contrast agent transit and clearance in the kidney and liver.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Diagnostic Techniques
Background:
- Assessing renal and hepatic perfusion and function is crucial for diagnosing various medical conditions.
- Gadolinium diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) is a contrast agent commonly used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of fast-field-echo MRI with Gd-DTPA for assessing renal and hepatic perfusion and function.
- To determine if sequential imaging can effectively visualize contrast agent dynamics in the kidney and liver.
Main Methods:
- A fast-field-echo MRI technique was employed to image the kidney and liver of five subjects.
- Sixteen sequential 3-second images were acquired at 13-second intervals post-Gd-DTPA injection.
- Signal intensity curves over time were generated for both renal and hepatic tissues.
Main Results:
- Renal signal intensity peaked within 2 minutes, decreasing to ≤60% by 3.4 minutes and ≤35% by 50 minutes.
- Hepatic signal intensity also peaked within 2 minutes, returning to near baseline levels by 30 minutes.
- The observed signal changes indicate successful imaging of contrast agent transit and clearance.
Conclusions:
- Fast-field-echo MRI with Gd-DTPA is a viable technique for assessing renal and hepatic perfusion.
- This imaging method can effectively visualize the dynamic behavior of contrast agents in the kidney and liver.
- The technique holds potential for evaluating organ function through perfusion assessment.