Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026
07:35
Use of Ultra-high Field MRI in Small Rodent Models of Polycystic Kidney Disease for In Vivo Phenotyping and Drug Monitoring
Published on: June 23, 2015
Prospective Study of Multiparametric Renal MRI for CKD Progression (AFiRM)
Susan Francis1,2, Charlotte E Buchanan1, Victoria Chester3
1Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
Kidney International Reports
|June 30, 2026
Summary
Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) shows promise for assessing chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression by evaluating kidney structure and function. This study establishes a valuable cohort for understanding how mpMRI changes relate to CKD severity.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses significant health challenges, with current imaging lacking detailed pathophysiological insights.
- Advanced imaging techniques are needed to improve CKD diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate renal multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) for enhancing the assessment of CKD.
- To determine the association between mpMRI measures (morphology, inflammation, fibrosis, perfusion, oxygenation) and CKD progression.
- To quantify longitudinal changes in mpMRI measures over time.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study (AFiRM study) involving 420 participants with CKD.
- Renal mpMRI was performed at baseline and 2-year follow-up using a harmonized UK Renal Imaging Network protocol.
- Clinical data were collected annually for 4 years, with kidney failure outcomes assessed at 10 years. A biopsy substudy compared mpMRI with histology.
Main Results:
- The study enrolled 420 participants with a mean age of 55 years and median eGFR of 39 ml/min/1.73 m².
- Common CKD etiologies included IgA nephropathy (22.4%), unknown etiology (19.5%), and diabetic kidney disease (14.3%).
- Baseline mpMRI and clinical data were collected, with a biopsy substudy of 43 participants.
Conclusions:
- The AFiRM study successfully established a representative CKD cohort with comprehensive renal mpMRI data and long-term follow-up.
- This cohort serves as a crucial resource for investigating the relationship between renal MRI measures, their longitudinal changes, and CKD severity and progression.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...
01:28Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) StudiesKidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) studies are standard diagnostic imaging procedures used to assess the anatomy of the urinary system. They are commonly utilized for patients experiencing abdominal pain or urinary symptoms. By using a simple X-ray of the abdomen, KUB studies can reveal structural and pathological abnormalities within the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. These studies are particularly valuable in diagnosing kidney stones, urinary...
01:30Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Accurate diagnosis and effective prevention are critical in managing Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), which is linked to high mortality rates ranging from 10% to 80%. Timely recognition of at-risk patients and careful monitoring can significantly reduce the likelihood of kidney damage.Diagnostic Assessments:The diagnostic process starts with a comprehensive medical history to identify prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal causes.Prerenal causes, such as dehydration, hypotension, or blood loss, should...
01:19Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
DefinitionRenal angiography, also known as renal arteriography, is an imaging technique used to obtain a comprehensive view of blood flow and the vascular structure of blood vessels in the kidneys and surrounding areas.PurposeRenal angiography detects blood vessel abnormalities in the kidneys, such as aneurysms, stenosis, thrombosis, vascular tumors, and renal artery stenosis. It evaluates kidney function and guides interventional treatments like angioplasty or stent placement.Pre-Procedure...
01:28Drug Dosing in Renal Diseases: Estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate Based on Serum Creatinine Concentration
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can be estimated from serum creatinine using the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula or the chronic kidney disease–epidemiology collaboration (CKD–EPI) equation. Both methods are widely used in clinical practice to assess kidney function and guide treatment decisions.The MDRD equation does not require weight or height measurements and is normalized to the body surface area of 1.73 m², considered the average adult surface area. This equation is...
01:28Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires collaborative and comprehensive management. CKD progresses through stages and can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) if untreated. Interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial, enabling patients to manage their health and improve their quality of life.Diagnostic approach for chronic kidney diseaseThe diagnosis of CKD primarily focuses on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which assesses kidney function by measuring how well...