MR microscopy of the human fetal upper extremity – a proof-of-principle study

Tobias Lindner,Simon Kim,Thomas Stahnke,Oliver Stachs,Jens-Peter Kühn,Andreas Wree,Soenke Langner,Inga Langner

doi:10.1186/s12861-016-0123-z

Tobias Lindner, Simon Kim + Show 6 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12861-016-0123-z

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Abstract

BackgroundCurrent knowledge of the human fetal and embryonic development relies on early descriptive studies of humans and from experimental studies of laboratory animals and embryos. Taking the upper extremity as an example, this study explores the potential of magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM) for the assessment of the development of the fetal upper extremity and discusses its correlation with histological findings.MethodsEx vivo MRM at 7.1 T (Clin Scan, Bruker Biospin, Germany) was performed in 10 human specimens at 8 to 12 weeks of gestational age (GA). In-plane resolution was 20 μm with a slice thickness of 70 μm. MRM was followed by histological work-up of the specimens. MRM images were then correlated with conventional histology with a focus on the presence of chondrification and ossification.ResultsOssification of the upper human extremity is detectable at 8 weeks GA in the humerus and the long bones of the forearm. There is excellent correlation for location and size of ossification between MRM and conventional histology. MRM imaging is in accordance with historical studies.ConclusionEx vivo MRM for the non-invasive assessment of the embryonic and fetal development of the upper human extremity is feasible. It may provide an accurate complementary tool for the evaluation of embryological development.

Highlights

Current knowledge of the human fetal and embryonic development relies on early descriptive studies of humans and from experimental studies of laboratory animals and embryos
Taking the upper extremity as an example, this study explores the potential of magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM) for the assessment of the development of the fetal upper extremity and discusses its correlation with histological findings
Bones 8 weeks of gestational age (GA) At 8 weeks of GA, the chondrified humerus was visible in MRM images with a small ossification center in the middle of the metaphysis (Fig. 1a)

Summary

Introduction

Current knowledge of the human fetal and embryonic development relies on early descriptive studies of humans and from experimental studies of laboratory animals and embryos. Taking the upper extremity as an example, this study explores the potential of magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM) for the assessment of the development of the fetal upper extremity and discusses its correlation with histological findings. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides excellent soft tissue contrast with high resolution and has multiplanar imaging capability [8] It is a well-established technique for prenatal imaging, e.g., the detection of fetal brain abnormalities in utero [9]. Taking the upper extremity as an example, this study explores the potential of MRM for the assessment of the development of the fetal upper extremity and discusses its correlation with histological findings

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