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Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Perfusion Imaging of Brain Tumors

^a Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Division and ^b MGH-NMR Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts

Correspondence: Diego J. Covarrubias, M.D., Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02144, USA. Telephone: 617-726-8320; Fax: 617-724-3338; e-mail: djcovarrubias{at}comcast.net

In this paper, we review the technique of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) perfusion imaging of brain neoplasms, with an emphasis on its clinical applications and utility. We start with a discussion of MR perfusion techniques available today and their relative merits and shortcomings. Next, the ability of MR perfusion to provide a preoperative assessment of tumor histology is examined. We also discuss the role of MR perfusion in helping guide tumor biopsy, and its advantages over more conventional methods. We will scrutinize the use of MR perfusion for assessing true lesion extent, in contrast to conventional MR imaging and other MR techniques. We will discuss the role of MR perfusion in differentiating treatment effects, such as radiation necrosis, from tumor recurrence. Finally, the future potential applications of this technology in the setting of novel antiangiogenic therapies for brain tumors will be addressed.

Key Words. Brain neoplasms • Magnetic resonance imaging • Perfusion • Diagnostic techniques

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