Measurement of Tumor T2* Relaxation Times after Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Administration

作者： Shakthi Kumaran Ramasamy1, Raheleh Roudi1, Wipawee Morakote1, Lisa C. Adams1, Laura J. Pisani1, Michael Moseley2, Heike E. Daldrup-Link1,3 1Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford,Stanford University, School of Medicine, 2Department of Radiology, Radiological Sciences Laboratory (RSL) at Stanford,Stanford University, School of Medicine, 3Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology,Stanford University, School of Medicine

简介：

Overview

This study presents a standardized protocol for quantifying T2* relaxation times of tumors using external software. The method facilitates reliable and consistent tumor T2* measurements across various MRI scanners, enhancing quality assurance in clinical settings.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging
• Oncology

Background

• T2* relaxation times are critical for assessing tumor characteristics.
• Standardization across different MRI systems is essential for reproducibility.
• Existing protocols may require programming knowledge, limiting accessibility.
• This study addresses these challenges with a user-friendly approach.

Purpose of Study

• To provide a standardized protocol for T2* measurements.
• To improve quality assurance in tumor imaging.
• To facilitate broader clinical application without programming requirements.

Methods Used

• Multi-echo gradient echo images are acquired and processed.
• OsiriX software is utilized with the T2 Fit Map Plugin for analysis.
• Regions of interest (ROIs) are drawn on images with different echo times.
• T2* maps are generated and analyzed for various tumor types.

Main Results

• The protocol enhances repeatability and reproducibility of T2* measurements.
• Color-encoded T2* maps provide anatomical orientation when merged with T1-weighted images.
• Consistent T2* relaxation times were achieved across diverse cancer studies.
• The method is accessible and user-friendly, lowering adoption barriers.

Conclusions

• This standardized protocol improves the reliability of tumor assessments.
• It supports clinical research by ensuring consistent imaging results.
• The approach can be adopted across various institutions and scanners.

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