Characterization of a first-pass gradient-echo spin-echo method to predict brain tumor grade and angiogenesis

Kathleen M. Schmainda, Scott D. Rand, Allen M. Joseph, Rebecca Lund, B. Doug Ward, Arvind P. Pathak, John L. Ulmer, Michael A. Baddrudoja, Hendrikus G.J. Krouwer

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

160 Scopus citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: No widespread clinical method provides specific information about the angiogenic characteristics of gliomas. We characterized blood volume and vascular morphologic parameters from combined gradient-echo (GE) and spin-echo (SE) MR imaging and assessed their relationship to tumor grade, a known correlate of glioma angiogenesis. METHODS: Simultaneous GE and SE echo-planar imaging was performed with bolus gadolinium administration (0.20-0.25 mmol/kg) in 73 patients with glioma. To diminish possible T1 changes due to contrast agent extravasation, a preload (0.05-0.10 mmol/kg) was administered before the study, and a postprocessing correction algorithm was applied. Image maps of total (GE) and microvascular (SE) relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) and the mean vessel diameter (mVD) calculated from the ratio of GE and SE relaxation rate changes (ΔR2*/ΔR2) were compared with tumor grade. A nonparametric K nearest-neighbor decision rule was applied to determine if the combined data could be used to distinguish low-grade (I-II) from high-grade (III-IV) tumors on a per-patient basis. RESULTS: For whole tumors, significant correlations were found between GE rCBV and grade (P < .0001) and between mVD and grade (P = .0001) but not between SE rCBV and grade (P = .08). For areas of highest SE rCBV (microvascular hotspots), SE rCBV and tumor grade were significantly correlated (P = .0007). In terms of differentiation, 69% of low-grade tumors and 96% of high-grade tumors were correctly classified. CONCLUSION: Combined GE and SE MR imaging provides information consistent with neoplastic angiogenesis, demonstrating its potential to aid in optimizing treatments, categorizing lesions, and influencing patient care.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1524-1532
Number of pages9
JournalAmerican Journal of Neuroradiology
Volume25
Issue number9
StatePublished - Oct 2004
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging
  • Clinical Neurology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Characterization of a first-pass gradient-echo spin-echo method to predict brain tumor grade and angiogenesis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this