Assessment of Pulmonary Perfusion With Ultrafast Projection Magnetic Resonance Angiography in Comparison With Lung Perfusion Scintigraphy in Patients With Malignant Stenosis

Lenhardt S, Winterer JT, Strecker R, et al. Assessment of pulmonary perfusion with ultrafast projection magnetic resonance angiography in comparison with lung perfusion scintigraphy in patients with malignant stenosis. Invest Radiol 2002;37:594–599. RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE.The aim of this study was to demonstrate and measure perfusion deficits caused by central bronchogenic carcinoma and to compare magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) perfusion data with data of perfusion scintigraphy. The diagnostic value of 2D MRA in detection of malignant pulmonary artery stenosis in comparison with conventional DSA was investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS.Eighteen patients were included in the study. MRA, conventional pulmonary angiograms, and pulmonary perfusion scintigrams were performed. MRA and DSA were compared and MR pulmonary perfusion data were assessed and compared with scintigraphical data. RESULTS.Perfusion defect could be demonstrated and localized in all patients. A quantitative perfusion deficit and a side dependent perfusion ratio could be evaluated. There was statistically significant correlation between MR perfusion and scintigraphically acquired data. 2D MRA showed a high correlation for detection and grading of stenosis compared with angiograms. CONCLUSIONS.Pulmonary perfusion could be demonstrated by using an ultrafast 2D projection MR DSA sequence. This technique allows measurement and quantification of pulmonary perfusion abnormalities in patients with malignant stenosis with statistically significant correlation to perfusion scintigraphy. The diagnostic potency in the evaluation of malignant pulmonary artery stenosis compared with conventional DSA could be shown.