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Biophysical properties and clinical applications of magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents

¹ lnstitut d'hygiene et d'epidémiologie, 14 Rue J Wytsman, 1050 Brussels, Belgium ² Institute J Bordet, Centre des tumeurs, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Rue H Bordet 1, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a very versatile and effective technique for detecting and characterizing lesions, for identifying a variety of patho-physiological abnormalities, and for providing perfusion and functional information. The application of contrast enhanced MRI to many clinical and research indications has emerged because of the rapid evolution in imaging techniques, improved methodology, and the development of efficient and specific contrast agents. Problems related to optimizing parameters and dosage have been due to complex interplay of relaxation times, biophysical mechanisms and acquisition parameters. A knowledge of basic biophysical aspects is therefore essential for a full understanding of the results obtained for different organs under different conditions, and for optimizing the image parameters and dosage of contrast agents. This article underlines the biophysical basis of the effects of contrast agents in MRI, identifies the problems involved in optimizing the parameters for maximum efficiency, and presents a general overview of the clinical studies and research applications in the central nervous system, perfusion abnormalities, hepatobiliary system, musculoskeletal system and the gastrointestinal tract. The section on perfusion studies includes a discussion of quantitative analysis and kinetic models describing the effects of contrast agents. Finally, a critical evaluation of the scope and limitations of contrast enhanced MRI is presented.

Received for publication October 11, 1993. Accepted for publication July 13, 1994.