Enhancement of brain tumors in 0.23-T low-field MRI: comparison of edema attenuated inversion recovery (EDAIR) sequences with T1-weighted sequence.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to explore whether edema attenuated inversion recovery (EDAIR) sequences could be used to improve tumor contrast in contrast-enhanced low-field 0.23-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using 0.1 mmol/kg of gadolinium-based contrast agent.


METHODS
Ten patients with brain tumors were examined by using the following contrast-enhanced sequences: T1-weighted spin echo, EDAIR with inversion time (TI) of 600 milliseconds, and EDAIR with TI of 800 milliseconds. Images were assessed both quantitatively and qualitatively.


RESULTS
Results suggest that tumor contrast enhancement in low-field MRI can be improved without increasing contrast agent dose. EDAIR 600 appears to be optimal in most cases.


CONCLUSIONS
This inversion recovery sequence could be applicable as an additional sequence in the imaging of metastases in low-field MRI, as well as imaging of any other enhancing brain tumors or lesions in low-field MRI.
Kokkonen
Salla-Maarit
SM
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Oulu University Hospital, P.O. Box 50, 90029 OYS, Oulu, Finland. salla.kokkonen@hexele.fi
Karttunen
Ari
A
Jartti
Pekka
P
Katisko
Jani
J
Phillic
Tervonen
Osmo
O
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004487:Edema / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008280:Magnetics; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography
D003287:Contrast Media; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA