Simulation-based comparison of two approaches frequently used for dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI.
The purpose was to compare two approaches for the acquisition and analysis of dynamic-contrast-enhanced MRI data with respect to differences in the modelling of the arterial input-function (AIF), the dependency of the model parameters on physiological parameters and their numerical stability. Eight hundred tissue concentration curves were simulated for different combinations of perfusion, permeability, interstitial volume and plasma volume based on two measured AIFs and analysed according to the two commonly used approaches. The transfer constants (Approach 1) K (trans) and (Approach 2) k (ep) were correlated with all tissue parameters. K (trans) showed a stronger dependency on perfusion, and k (ep) on permeability. The volume parameters (Approach 1) v (e) and (Approach 2) A were mainly influenced by the interstitial and plasma volume. Both approaches allow only rough characterisation of tissue microcirculation and microvasculature. Approach 2 seems to be somewhat more robust than 1, mainly due to the different methods of CA administration.
Zwick
Stefan
S
Siemens AG, Healthcare Sector, Erlangen, Germany.
Brix
Gunnar
G
Tofts
Paul S
PS
Strecker
Ralph
R
Kopp-Schneider
Annette
A
Laue
Hendrik
H
Semmler
Wolfhard
W
Kiessling
Fabian
F
D000465:Algorithms; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008833:Microcirculation / Q000502:physiology*; D055806:Microvessels / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D008955:Models, Cardiovascular; D015233:Models, Statistical; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D003287:Contrast Media