Alain Nchimi MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Denis Brisbois MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Benjamin Grayet MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Pierre Gomez MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Natzi Sakalihassan MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Paul Magotteaux MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To understand the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to expansion and rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysm(AAA).To review current imaging strategies used to assess the metabolism of AAAs.To interpret iron oxides enhanced MR and 18-FDG-PET findings in patients with AAA.

The mortality related to the rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysm(AAA) frequently indicate referral to imaging of patients with known AAA (less than 5 cm in diameter), in order to assess their growth. However, before morphologic changes leading to rupture occur, metabolic changes occur within the wall of the aorta. Small Paramagnetic Iron Oxides (SPIO) particles based MR contrast agents and 18-FDG-PET may help to detect respectively, activated macrophages, and abnormal glucose metabolism around and within the aneurysm. The purposes of this exhibit are to provide a comprehensive review of the metabolic events leading to AAA expansion, and to review CT, SPIO enhanced MR and 18-FDG-PET findings in patients with AAA. Knowledge of these findings is important for both the therapeutic decision making process in small aneurysms, and the prevention of AAAs rupture. Special emphasis will be made on the correlation between metabolic imaging findings and the pathologic specimens.

Nchimi, A, Brisbois, D, Grayet, B, Gomez, P, Sakalihassan, N, Magotteaux, P, Metabolic Assessment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4403219.html