MRI method for measuring tumor hemodynamic parameters in the presence of contrast agent extravasation

摘要

One or two sets of time course NMR data are acquired using an EPI pulse sequence in which either or both gradient recalled echo NMR signals and spin-echo NMR signals are acquired after bolus injection of a contrast agent. T₂* relaxation rates for GE and T₂ relaxation rates for SE are calculated from the acquired NMR signals and are corrected for extravasation of contrast agent into surrounding tissues. The gradient-echo signals and spin-echo NMR signals are employed along with the T₂* and T₂ relaxation rates to calculate hemodynamic parameter maps which are used as a measure of tumor angiogenesis.