Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Oncology: Uses and Indications

Abstract

Whole-body MRI (WB-MRI) has emerged as a radiation-free method for the diagnosis, staging, and therapy response assessments in cancer patients. This article reviews the current roles for WB-MRI in the clinical context of limitations of currently used techniques, focusing on bone marrow disease applications. Indication for broader clinical use are discussed, including guideline recommendations. The emerging screening role of WB-MRI in subjects at high risk of cancer is discussed, as is normal population screening.

Keywords: Bone marrow disease; Breast cancer; Lymphoma; Melanoma; Multiple myeloma; Prostate cancer; Response assessment; Whole-body-MR Imaging.