title: Diffusion-weighted MRI beyond the central nervous system in children.
abstract: Diffusion-weighted imaging has recently been incorporated into     extra-neurological pediatric imaging protocols because of its various clinical     advantages. Because diffusion-weighted imaging does not require intravenous     contrast media, it can be safely used in patients with reduced renal function.     Furthermore, diffusion-weighted imaging can be performed within several minutes     by using the echo planar imaging technique. Its clinical advantages include     improved tissue characterization, as well as the ability to assess organ     functionality, monitor the treatment response after chemotherapy or radiation     therapy and predict patient outcomes. The aims of this pictorial essay were to     explain the physical principles underlying diffusion-weighted imaging, to     outline the interpretation of diffusion-weighted images and apparent diffusion     coefficient maps, and to list the extra-neurological applications of diffusion-     weighted imaging in children.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Gülhane Military Medical School, Ankara, Turkey. bilbat_23@yahoo.com
authors.forename: Bilal
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Battal
authors.forename: Veysel
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Akgün
authors.forename: Murat
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kocaoğlu
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D038524:Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*