Abstract
Functional renal MRI promises access to a wide range of physiologically relevant parameters such as blood oxygenation, perfusion, tissue microstructure, pH, and sodium concentration. For quantitative comparison of results, representative values must be extracted from the parametric maps obtained with these different MRI techniques. To improve reproducibility of results this should be done based on regions-of-interest (ROIs) that are clearly and objectively defined.Semiautomated subsegmentation of the kidney in magnetic resonance images represents a simple but very valuable approach for the quantitative analysis of imaging parameters in multiple ROIs that are associated with specific anatomic locations. Thereby, it facilitates comparing MR parameters between different kidney regions, as well as tracking changes over time.Here we provide detailed step-by-step instructions for two recently developed subsegmentation techniques that are suitable for kidneys of small rodents: i) the placement of ROIs in cortex, outer and the inner medulla based on typical kidney morphology and ii) the division of the kidney into concentrically oriented layers.This chapter is based upon work from the COST Action PARENCHIMA, a community-driven network funded by the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) program of the European Union, which aims to improve the reproducibility and standardization of renal MRI biomarkers.
Highlights
The potential of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis and monitoring of renal disease remains largely untapped
We provide detailed step-by-step instructions for two recently developed subsegmentation techniques that are suitable for kidneys of small rodents: i) the placement of ROIs in cortex, outer and the inner medulla based on typical kidney morphology and ii) the division of the kidney into concentrically oriented layers
Semiautomated subsegmentation of the kidney in MRI represents a simple but very valuable approach for the quantitative analysis of imaging parameters in multiple ROIs that are associated with specific anatomic locations, for example, the distinct layers: cortex, outer medulla, and inner medulla
Summary
The potential of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis and monitoring of renal disease remains largely untapped. Semiautomated subsegmentation of the kidney in MRI represents a simple but very valuable approach for the quantitative analysis of imaging parameters in multiple ROIs that are associated with specific anatomic locations, for example, the distinct layers: cortex, outer medulla, and inner medulla. Thereby, it facilitates comparing MR parameters between different kidney regions, as well as tracking changes over time. A direct comparison between human results and those from rodent kidneys would, require a carefully calibrated conversion, due to the morphological differences Notwithstanding their limitations, both kidney subsegmentation techniques are very valuable semiautomated tools for the quantitative analysis of imaging parameters, for comparing MR parameters between groups, between different kidney regions and monitoring changes over time.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
