The Basics of Diffusion and Perfusion Imaging in Brain Tumors

Panagiotis Korfiatis, PhD; Bradley Erickson, MD, PhD

Disclosures

Appl Radiol. 2014;43(7) 

In This Article

Abstract and Introduction

Introduction

Perfusion and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are commonly used by neuroradiologists in everyday clinical practice. These techniques provide information not available with conventional MRI. Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology Criteria (RANO)[1] and Macdonald[2] criteria have been used extensively to evaluate tumor response based on measurement of T1 postcontrast images. However, relying on these changes can lead to misinterpretation of treatment response, since enhancement volume is a relatively nonspecific feature of tumor behavior.[3]

Perfusion and diffusion imaging are recent advances that can help predict tumor type and grade, as well as predict patient survival and optimal therapeutic options.[4] This article will present the basic principles of perfusion and diffusion imaging, and provide clinical examples of their application.

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