Diffusion-weighted Imaging of the Liver: Current Applications

Overview

Journal World J Radiol

Publisher Baishideng Publishing Group

Specialty Radiology

Date 2016 Dec 9

PMID 27928467

Citations 14

Authors

Kazuhiro Saito

Yu Tajima

Taiyo L Harada

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of the liver can be performed using most commercially available machines and is currently accepted in routine sequence. This sequence has some potential as an imaging biomarker for fibrosis, tumor detection/characterization, and following/predicting therapy. To improve reliability including accuracy and reproducibility, researchers have validated this new technique in terms of image acquisition, data sampling, and analysis. The added value of DWI in contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging was established in the detection of malignant liver lesions. However, some limitations remain in terms of lesion characterization and fibrosis detection. Furthermore, the methodologies of image acquisition and data analysis have been inconsistent. Therefore, researchers should make every effort to not only improve accuracy and reproducibility but also standardize imaging parameters.

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