Informatics in Radiology (infoRAD): Magnetic Resonance Imaging Workbench: analysis and visualization of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging data

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Workbench (MRIW) allows analysis of T1- and T2*-weighted dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging data sets to extract tissue permeability and perfusion characteristics by using standard pharmacokinetic models. Parametric maps are calculated from individual pixel enhancement curves in regions of interest (ROIs) and displayed as color overlays on the anatomic images. User-defined ROIs can be saved to ensure consistency of later reanalysis. Individual parametric maps are visualized together with user-selected parameter time-series plots. The following selections are available: overall ROI enhancement curve and fit, histogram, and individual pixel enhancement curve and fit. Summary data (transfer constant, leakage space, rate constant, integrated area under the gadolinium curve after 60 seconds, relative blood volume, relative blood flow, and mean transit time) may be exported to permanent storage along with per-pixel results for statistical analysis. Numerical values for parameters are displayed below the plot for easy reference. The dynamic range of plots and parametric map overlays is interactively adjustable. Viewing individual enhancement curves and parametric maps allows radiologists to investigate the heterogeneity of contrast agent kinetics for lesion characterization and to scrutinize serial changes in response to therapy. MRIW is written in IDL, enabling it to be used on a variety of computer systems.