Imaging approaches to the correlation of structure and function in the kidney.
OBJECTIVE
This review sets out to cover the areas of radiology and imaging concerned with the structure and function of the kidney which may not be familiar to those outside the field.


METHODS
A brief historical introduction to renal imaging is followed in more detail by descriptions of the use of computed tomography in 3D reconstruction, angiography, and functional studies. Comparison with magnetic resonance imaging is made and the use of radiological techniques in intervention.


CONCLUSIONS
Radiology can provide far more information about the kidneys than mere anatomy. Research promises the possibility of reducing the number of tests required to provide structural and functional information.
Hare
C M
CM
University College of London Hospitals, Department of Imaging, Middlesex Hospital, London, UK. cmbh-doc@dircon.co.uk
D000792:Angiography; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000502:physiology*; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D012079:Renal Circulation; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography