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Review
. 2024 Feb;32(1):63-72.
doi: 10.1016/j.mric.2023.08.005. Epub 2023 Oct 8.

Arterial Spin Labeling Perfusion Imaging

Manuel Taso  1 , David C Alsop  2
Affiliations
Review

Arterial Spin Labeling Perfusion Imaging

Manuel Taso et al. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am. 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Noninvasive imaging of tissue perfusion is a valuable tool for both research and clinical applications. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a contrast-free perfusion imaging method that enables measuring and quantifying tissue blood flow using MR imaging. ASL uses radiofrequency and magnetic field gradient pulses to label arterial blood water, which then serves as an endogenous tracer. This review highlights the basic mechanism of ASL perfusion imaging, labeling strategies, and quantification. ASL has been widely used during the past 30 years for the study of normal brain function as well as in multiple neurovascular, neuro-oncological and degenerative pathologic conditions.

Keywords: Arterial spin labeling; Blood flow; MR imaging; Perfusion.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosures M. Taso is now an employee of Siemens Medical Solutions USA. D.C. Alsop receives royalties through his institution from GE, Siemens, Philips, Hitachi, and UIH America for patents related to pseudocontinuous ASL methods.

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