Joachim Vollmar, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Juergen F Schaefer, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Andreas Boss MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Christian Plathow MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Franka Zenneck, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Claus Detlef Claussen MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Fritz Schick MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

et al, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Measurement of the lungs proton density is feasible using ultra-short echo-times. Aim of this study was to test if there are significant differences in the lungs proton-density comparing healthy volunteers and CF patients. The proton density was correlated to pulmonary function tests (PFT) and morphological changes of lung parenchyma.

10 young healthy volunteers and 10 patients with CF underwent MRI at an 1.5T scanner (Sonata, Siemens) and a PFT. Both groups were matched regarding age and BMI. Lung proton density was assessed with a 2D gradient-echo (GE) sequence with ultra-short echo-time (TR/TE = 2.9/0.8ms; flip = 5°, voxel size = 1.6 x 1.6 x 15 mm3). For morphologic evaluation highly resolved 3D GE and respiratory triggered turbo spin-echo sequences were used. The difference in proton density (delta SI%) between inhalation and exhalation was calculated for each lung lobe. The extent of morphologic changes was graduated with a score from 0 to 2 points for: bronchiectasis, peribronchitis, small and large nodules and airtrapping.

Delta SI% was significantly lower in patients than in volunteers (65%; P=0.001). Delta SI% correlated significantly with PFT (rs: 0.69 – 0.85, P<0.05 for FEV1, VC and RV). A significant association between the score for peribronchitis / airtrapping and delta SI% was found (rs: –0.72 and -0.89, P<0.05). The overall score correlated also relevant with FEV1 (rs: -0.85, P<0.05).

MRI shows significant differences in lung proton density for CF patients compared with healthy volunteers. Using MRI, the global and regional affection of the lung by CF can be determined with quantitative and qualitative parameters. The overall MRI score correlates with PFT.

Using MRI, the global and regional affection of the lung by CF can be determined with quantitative and qualitative parameters.

Vollmar, J, Schaefer, J, Boss, A, Plathow, C, Zenneck, F, Claussen, C, Schick, F, et al, , Proton Density of the Lung: Measurement of Healthy Volunteers and Patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Using Ultrashort Echo-times.  Radiological Society of North America 2006 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 1, 2006 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2006/4435940.html