Use of hyperpolarized gas for magnetic resonance detection of regional variations in oxygen uptake from the lungs

摘要

A method of detecting regional variations in oxygen uptake from the lungs of an air-breathing animal subject comprises administrating into the lungs a diagnostically effective amount of a gaseous hyperpolarized magnetic resonance imaging agent. Then detecting the magnetic resonance imaging agent in the lungs by determining the temporal variation in relaxation rate for the signal for at least one region of interest within the lungs. A qualitative or quantitative value or image indicative of the oxygen concentration in the one region of interest is generated from the variation and if desired the time dependency of such concentration. Preferably the agent is 3He or 129Xe. The method can be used to diagnosis lung malfunction.