title: Basic physics of MR contrast agents and maximization of image contrast.
abstract: This review summarizes the physical basis of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging contrast agents, including both T1 agents, such as gadolinium-DTPA (diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid), and T2 or T2* agents, such as superparamagnetic iron oxides. The maximization of image contrast and lesion visibility with contrast agents is described, and the use of contrast agents in MR angiography and perfusion imaging is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver.
authors.forename: R E
authors.initials: RE
authors.lastname: Hendrick
authors.forename: E M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Haacke
mesh_terms: D001808:Blood Vessels / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D003287:Contrast Media; D003911:Dextrans; D052203:Ferrosoferric Oxide; D005682:Gadolinium; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007501:Iron; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D058185:Magnetite Nanoparticles; D009942:Organometallic Compounds; D010087:Oxides; D004369:Pentetic Acid
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media; D003911:Dextrans; D058185:Magnetite Nanoparticles; D009942:Organometallic Compounds; D010087:Oxides; D004369:Pentetic Acid; D005682:Gadolinium; D007501:Iron; C065507:ferumoxides; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D052203:Ferrosoferric Oxide