Dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging in the evaluation of patients with prostate cancer

Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am. 2009 May;17(2):363-83. doi: 10.1016/j.mric.2009.01.013.

Abstract

Prostate cancer is a common tumor among men, with increasing diagnosis at an earlier stage and a lower volume of disease because of screening with prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The need for imaging of the prostate stems from a desire to optimize treatment strategy on a patient and tumor-specific level. The major goals of prostate imaging are (1) staging of known cancer, (2) determination of tumor aggressiveness, (3) diagnosis of cancer in patients who have elevated PSA but a negative biopsy, (4) treatment planning, and (5) the evaluation of therapy response. This article concentrates on the role of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging in the evaluation of patients who have prostate cancer and how it might be used to help achieve the above goals. Various dynamic contrast enhancement approaches (quantitative/semiquantitative/qualitative, high temporal versus high spatial resolution) are summarized with reference to the relevant strengths and compromises of each approach.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Contrast Media / pharmacokinetics
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Contrast Media