Visualization of experimental lung and bone metastases in live nude mice by X-ray micro-computed tomography.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the utility of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) for the detection and monitoring of experimental lung and bone metastases in nude mice. Whole body micro-CT scans were performed in lung or bone metastasis-bearing nude mice under deep anesthesia. The volumes of individual lung metastases were estimated by micro-CT, and compared to direct measurements on excised tumors. The two data sets were highly correlated (p<0.0001). The smallest lung tumor detected was 0.85 mm in diameter. The progression of metastatic lung disease, including tumor growth and the development of pleural effusion, was visualized by serial micro-CT scans in live mice. In addition, multiple bony metastases, with both osteolytic and osteoblastic features, were successfully detected by micro-CT. Bone lesions identified by micro-CT were confirmed as metastases by histopathological examination. Micro-CT may be used as an accurate, noninvasive tool to detect and monitor experimental bone and lung metastases in intact live nude mice.
Department of Medical Physics, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA. LiX1@mskcc.org
Xiao-Feng
XF
Li
Pat
P
Zanzonico
C Clifton
CC
Ling
Joseph
J
O'Donoghue
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000556:secondary; D000818:Animals; D001859:Bone Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000556:secondary; D005260:Female; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000556:secondary; D051379:Mice; D008819:Mice, Nude; D008852:Microradiography; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed