title: Diffusion-weighted MRI and its role in prostate cancer.
abstract: In the last 5 years, the multiparametric approach has been investigated as the method for the MRI of prostate cancer. In multiparametric MRI of the prostate, at least two functional MRI techniques, such as diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, are combined with conventional MRI, such as T2 -weighted imaging. DW-MRI has the ability to qualitatively and quantitatively represent the diffusion of water molecules by the apparent diffusion coefficient, which indirectly reflects tissue cellularity. DW-MRI is characterized by a short acquisition time without the administration of contrast medium. Thus, DW-MRI has the potential to become established as a noninvasive diagnostic method for tumor detection and localization, tumor aggressiveness, local staging and local recurrence after various therapies. Accordingly, radiologists should recognize the principles of DW-MRI, the methods of image acquisition and the pitfalls of image interpretation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki City, Okayama, Japan.
authors.forename: Tsutomu
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Tamada
authors.forename: Teruki
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Sone
authors.forename: Yoshimasa
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Jo
authors.forename: Akira
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Yamamoto
authors.forename: Katsuyoshi
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ito
mesh_terms: D038524:Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy
keywords: Gleason score; MRI; apparent diffusion coefficient; diffusion-weighted MRI; histologic type of neoplasm; peripheral zone; prostate cancer; transition zone