Multiparametric MRI for Assessing the Tumor Microenvironment in Head and Neck Cancer: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Head and neck cancers are complex and difficult to treat.
• Current imaging methods lack the detail to fully understand tumor biology.
• Advanced functional imaging is needed to assess tumor characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the utility of multiparametric MRI in characterizing the head and neck cancer tumor microenvironment.
• To explore how advanced MRI techniques can provide biological insights into tumors.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was performed.
• Databases searched included PubMed and Google Scholar.
• Studies focused on advanced MRI techniques assessing cellularity, vascularity, molecular features, and oxygenation were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Perfusion MRI (DCE-MRI, ASL) quantifies vascularity and predicts treatment response.
• Diffusion MRI (DWI, IVIM, DKI) evaluates cellularity and heterogeneity.
• Molecular MRI (CEST, APT) assesses protein content and proliferation.
• Oxygenation-sensitive MRI (BOLD, OE-MRI) detects tumor hypoxia.

Conclusions:

• Multiparametric MRI offers a detailed biological assessment of the head and neck tumor microenvironment.
• This approach has the potential to enhance treatment prediction.
• It can support the development of personalized treatment strategies for head and neck cancers.