Magnetic Resonance Arterial Spin Tagging for Non-Invasive Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Breast Cancer.

摘要

This research project concerns the development of MRI arterial spin tagging to non-invasively measure breast tissue perfusion. The specific aims are to: (1) refine arterial spin tagging pulse sequences, (2) develop automated data analysis software, and (3) compare the technique to first-pass contrast-enhanced MRI and biopsy. The scope of effort has been mainly limited to technical developments. During the first two years, the spin-tagging pulse sequences were developed for the GE 1.5 T Horizon LX CV/I MRI system at UC Davis. New image processing software, and software for statistical analysis of spin tagging and contrast enhanced dynamic scans, were written for use in the clinical setting. Year three and four (no cost extension) of the project included a clinical comparison with first-pass, contrast-enhanced MRI in 60 patients with unbiopsied breast masses, for aim (3). In the past year, these studies were not done, due to the inability to recruit patients, and no grant funds were spent. Official approval has been granted for a one-year no-cost extension. A new co- investigator, patient referral pattern, and support staff of the new Imaging Research Center at UC Davis should improve patient recruitment in this upcoming fifth year of the project.