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In recent years, the clinical experts consensuses or guidelines of ankylosing spondylitis (AS)/spondyloarthritis (SpA) have been constantly updated, but to better understand and practice, patient self-participation management is one of the key points to improve the level of diagnosis and treatment. Through questionnaire survey of these patients, we screened out the most concerned issues, and established the AS/SpA patient practice guideline working group with multidisciplinary physicians and patients. Fifteen opinions, as the AS/SpA patient practice guidelines, are proposed in accordance with the relevant principles of the "WHO guidelines development manual" , and with the international normative process.
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In recent years, osteoporosis (OP) has become one of the main diseases affecting the health of middle-aged and elderly people in China, and the prevalence of OP has increased significantly. The clinical diagnosis and treatment guidelines for this disease are also constantly updated. The overall principles speciallyemphasise that doctors and patients need to work together to negotiate the details of the diagnosis and treatment guidelines, in order to improve the OP clinical diagnosis and treatment rate. Therefore, patients′ knowledge of the disease, understanding of clinical guidelines, and cooperation with doctors to implement diagnosis and treatment plans are very important. In this study, from the most concerned issues of the patients, we established the OP patient practice guideline working group. 14 recommendations, as the OP patient practice guidelines, are proposed in accordance with the relevant principles of the "World Health Organization guidelines development manual" and the international normative process.
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<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of endometrial carcinoma and their value in endometrial carcinoma staging according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO 2009) staging criteria.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Fifty-four patients with pathologically confirmed endometrial carcinoma and complete clinical data underwent preoperative MRI examination. According to FIGO 2009 staging criteria of endometrial carcinoma, the MRI features of the tumor lesions were evaluated for assessment of myometrial invasion and cervical involvement and preoperative staging.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The 54 cases included 27 stage Ia cases, 9 stage Ib cases, 10 stage II cases, 5 stage III cases, and 3 stage IV cases. The total lesion display rate by MRI was 94% (51/54). With an isointensity or hypo-intensity on T1WI, the tumor lesions showed a moderate hyper-intensity on T2WI. In enhanced MRI scanning, the lesions showed a moderate heterogeneous enhancement, which had a lower intensity than the marked enhancement of the myometrium. Combination of T2WI and T1WI in fat suppression sequence enhanced scan had a diagnostic accuracy of 91% (49/54) for myometrial invasion, and the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of MRI for detecting cervical involvement were 77%, 89%, and 83%, respectively. The accuracy of preoperative MRI-based staging of endometrial carcinoma was 89% (48/54), showing no significant difference from the results of postoperative FIGO 2009 staging and pathological examination (P>0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>MRI has a high accuracy in the diagnosis, evaluation of myometrial and cervical invasion depth, and preoperative staging of endometrial carcinoma, and serves as an important modality in assisting clinical decisions on the optimal therapeutic protocols and in prognostic estimation.</p>
Subject(s)
Adult , Aged , Female , Humans , Middle Aged , Endometrial Neoplasms , Diagnosis , Pathology , Magnetic Resonance Imaging , Methods , Neoplasm StagingABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo investigate the postoperative 3D MRI appearances and their evolvement patterns of ACL grafts and bone tunnels at follow-up.Methods There were 26 double bundles ACL reconstructions and 16 single bundle ACL reconstructions,and a total of 56 follow-up 3D MR Imaging.MR images were reconstructed with MPR technique to evaluate grafts,bone tunnels,fixers and associated.complications.Proportions of grafts with hypointensity or hyperintensity and occurrence rates of marrow edema around bone tunnels were calculated respectively among groups of different periods after operation.ResultsThere were 24 grafts of hypointensity and 32 grafts of hyperintensity.Grafts of 2 cases were suspended with cross pins within femoral tunnels,graft of 1 case was suspended with an endobutton within the femoral tunnel,and grafts of other sites were fixed with interference screws.In the three periods as 3 months,6 to 9 months and over 12 months after cruciate ligament reconstruction,proportions of hypointensive grafts were 20/25,0/14 and 4/10 respectively,while proportions of hyperintensive grafts were 5/25,14/14 and 6/10 respectively,occurrence proportions of marrow edema around bone tunnels were 54/54,10/32 and 4/26 respectively.There was 1 tear graft,4 tibial tunnels placed anteriorly with ACL graft impingement on the intercondylar roof,3 femoral tunnels placed anteriorly,and 2 bone tunnels with mismatching interference screws.Conclusion3D MRI can accurately demonstrate the state of ACL grafts,bone tunnels,fixers and associated complications.Intensity of grafts presented a rise and reduce pattern after operation.
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Objective To explore the value of Gadofluorine M,a novel M RI enhancement agent,in the diagnosis the early radiation brain injury.Methods Seventy-two Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 equal groups.To establish the radiation injury model,the rat's posterior brain was irradiated with 0(blank controls),25,35,45,55,and 65 Gy,respectively.After irradiation MR plain scanning and Gadofluorine M enhancement scanning (after the T1WI and T2WI scanning Gf at the dosage of 0.1 mmol/kg was injected intravenously and scanning was performed again 12 h later) were performed once a week for 8 weeks.Another 12 rats were randomly divided into 2 equal groups to exposure to 55 and 65Gy,respectively,and MR scanning was performed once a week for 8 weeks since the third week after MR.After T1WI and T2WI scanning Gd-DTPA was injected intravenously,MR was conducted again 30 min later,and Gf was injected intravenously (Gd-DTPAenhancement and Gf enhancement contrast).The MR image and the pixel count were compared.Since the third week 2 rats from the Gf enhancement scanning group and 1 rat from the Gd-DTPA enhancement and Gf enhancement contrast were killed after MR with their brains taken out to undergo pathological examination.Results No abnormal signal changes were found in MRI in 25 and 35 Gy groups within 2 months after irradiation.A high signal in the Gf enhancement T1 WI image was found in 45,55,and 65 Gy groups within the period of 4-6 weeks after radiation.The signal intensity was significantly higher than that of the control,25,and 35 Gy groups(F =2.15,P <0.05).The emerge time of this signal was negatively correlated with the dose of radiation(r =-0.62,P < 0.05).When there was no obvious change was found by Gd-DTPA enhancement,a high signal representing change of injury could be found in Gf enhancement in the same rat.The signal intensity was significantly enhanced in Gf enhancement compared to the Gd-DTPA enhancement (F = 2.74,P <0.01).Histopathology examination of the 65 Gy group showed frosted degeneration in part of the region,however,no obvious necrotic damage was found in other groups.Conclusions The Gf enhancement change appears before histopathological changes,it helps discover early radiation injury in brain.Compared to the regular MRI and Gd-DTPA enhancement,Gadofluorine M enhancement has obvious advantage and is worth further research and application.
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Objective To compare the success rate, time of tumor formation and number of tumors in three methods of tumor transplantation, in order to seek an ideal animal model for molecular imaging study. Methods Forty-eight BALB/C-nu/nu nude mice were randomly divided into three groups (each n=16). Tumor tissue mass of 2 mm3 was injected into subcutaneous of nude mice in experiment group. Tumor tissue mass of 1 mm3 was applied in control group 1. Tumor cells suspension liquid was injected into subcutaneous of nude mice in control group 2. The tumor formation rate, the time of tumor formation and the number of tumors were observed. MRI scanning were performed 3-6 weeks after implantation. Results The rate of tumor formation of three groups was 93.75%, 75.00% and 43.75%, respectively. The time of tumor formation was (21.7±2.4), (29.8±2.9) and (34.6±3.9) days, respectively. The rate of solitary nodule implanted tumor was 93.33% in experiment group, higher than that in control group 1 (75.00%) and control group 2 (14.29%). The tumors were hypointense on T1WI and hyperintense on T2WI. Conclusion Transplantation 2 mm3 tumor tissue mass is effective to set up the subcutaneous implanted tumor models with a high success rate of tumor formation, a short time of tumor formation and high rate of solitary tumors, being suitable for the study of molecular imaging. The models can undertake conventional T1WI, T2WI and T2-mapping imaging, and the imaging qualities are good.
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Objective To prospectively evaluate the value of diffusion-weighted imaging with background signal suppression (DWIBS) in the detection and diagnoses of metastatic cervical lymph nodes. Methods Twenty patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas underwent conventional MRI and DWIBS. The ADC values were measured and compared between metastatic and benign lymph nodes. The abilities of DWIBS and conventional MRI in the evaluation of metastatic cervical lymph nodes were compared. Results Conventional MRI demonstrated 101 lymph nodes, in which 58 were diagnosed as metastatic nodes. When MRI criteria were used for discrimination between metastatic and benign nodes, the obtained sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive value were 78% (47/60), 81%(44/54), 80% (91/114), 82% (47/57) and 77% (44/57), respectively. The mean ADC values of metastatic nodes (n =60) and benign nodes (n =54) were (0.945 ±0.122) × 10-3 mm2/s and (1. 210 ±0. 151 ) × 10-3 mm2/s ( t = - 10. 354 ,P <0. 01 ). When an ADC value of 1. 090 × 10 -3 mm2/s was used as the threshold for discrimination between metastatic and benign nodes, the obtained sensitivity, specificity,accuracy, positive and negative predictive value were 88% (53/60), 80% (43/54), 84% (96/114), 83%(53/64) and 86% (43/50), respectively. Conclusion DWIBS is helpful in diagnosing metastatic cervical lymph nodes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and is superior to conventional MRI in their detection.
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Objective To compare the Chinese 2008, 1992 and 2002 UICC (International Union Against Cancer) staging System for nasopharyngeal carcinoma and find out the reasons for the changes in the new Chinese 2008 staging system. Methods From Apr. 2007 to Dec. 2008, 285 naive patients with pathologically proved NPC, but without metastasis, received standard enhanced MRI scans of the nasopharynx and neck. Based on MRI imaging data and clinical information, clinical stage was classified according to the Chinese 2008, Chinese 1992 staging system and 2002 6th UICC staging system,respectively. Comparisons were made between Chinese 2008 and 1992 staging system, and between Chinese 2008 and 2002 UICC staging system by χ2 test. Results As a result of deleting some details of the old staging system, Chinese 2008 staging system is easier to grasp. With Chinese 2008 staging system, the number of cases in stage T1 to T4 are 66, 84, 72,63, respectively; those in stage N0 to N3 are 12,48,169,56; the number of cases in clinical stage Ⅰ -Ⅳ are 5,30,141 and 109. With 2002 6th UICC staging system, the number of cases in stage T1 to T4 are 66, 83, 55,81; those in stage N0 to N3 are 26,50,201,8;the number of cases in clinical stage Ⅰ -Ⅳ are 6,40,153 and 86. With Chinese 1992 staging system, the number of cases in stage T1 to T4 are 62,91,71,61; those in stage No to N3 are 26,189,61,9; the number of cases in clinical stage Ⅰ -Ⅳ are 6, 110, 98 and 71. Comparing with the staging results of Chinese 1992 staging system, many cases showed different stage based on Chinese 2008 system including 12 cases (4.21%) inT stage (3 up-staging and 9 down-staging), 217 cases (76.14%) in N stage (216 up-staging, most rise I stage, and 1 down-staging), 123 cases (43. 16% ) in clinical stage ( 121 up-staging and 2 down-staging). Comparing with the staging results of 2002 UICC staging system, 35 cases ( 12. 28% )changes in T stage (8 up-staging and 27 down-staging), 77 cases (27. 02% ) changes in N stage (all upstaging, most rise 1 stage), 74 cases (25. 95% ) changes in clinical stage (54 up-staging and 20 downstaging) based on Chinese 2008. Comparing the constituent ratio of T, N and clinical staging results separately, statistical differences were found between Chinese 2008 and Chinese 1992 staging system in N0,N1, N2, N3, clinical stage Ⅱ , Ⅲ, Ⅳ. Statistical difference was also found in N0, N2, N3, clinical stage Ⅳ between Chinese 2008 and 2002 UICC staging system. χ2 test results show that there is N0 significant difference of T stage constituent ratio among the 3 staging system ( χ2 = 6. 916, P = 0. 329 ), but the difference of N stage and clinical stage constituent ratio are significant( χ2 = 275. 169 and 84. 515, P <0. 0125). Conclusion Chinese 2008 Staging System for nasopharyngeal carcinoma is based on MRI, with clear definition to some anatomical location, after deleting some details in the old stage system, it's easier to use. The most obvious change for Chinese 2008 Staging System is the up-staging in N staging,which leads to the changes in clinical stage and constituent ratio of stage result.
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Objective To analysis the effect of axial loading to ADC value, FA of lumbar intervetebral discs. Methods Forty five patients with low back pain (age range, 25 to 54 years) were evaluated with MR T2WI, MR T1WI and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of the lumbar spine. Following axial loading with 40% to 50% body weight for 10 minutes, a repeat DTI was performed. DTI were obtained by using an echo-planar imaging ( EPI ) sequence, TE 89 ms, TR 2500 ms, b value of 400 s/mm2,6 noncollinear diffusion directions. Scan time was approximately 4 min 10 s. An isotropic ADC map, FA map and bo map were calculated from DTI sequence. The mean ADC value, FA prior to and following axialloading were analyzed with t test and Rank Sum test. Results Forty five patients with 225 discs were evaluated and 223 discs were included in the study except for 2 calcified discs. The Pfirrmann grading results were as following: 100 Grade Ⅱ , 48 Grade Ⅲ, 59 Grade Ⅳ, and 16 Grade Ⅴ. No significant difference existed in the mean ADC value before [ ( 1666 ± 252 ) × 10-3 mm2/s ] and after [ ( 1662 ± 253 ) ×10 -3 mm2/s ] axial loading ( Z = - 1.363, P > 0.05 ), but the mean FA [ ( 301 ± 104 ) × 10 -3, ( 316 ±112) × 10-3 ] value increased ( Z = - 2.794, P < 0.05 ). The paired-samples t test show that the mean ADC value [ ( 1685 ± 190) × 10-3 mm2/s, ( 1624 ± 180) × 10-3mm2/s] of Grade Ⅲ discs decreased after axial loading, t=3.513, P<0. 05, Grade Ⅲ, Ⅳdiscs mean FA value [(300±87) ×10-3, (326±87) ×10-3 for Grade Ⅲ and (348 ±67) × 10-3, (351 ± 71 ) × 10-3 for Grade Ⅳ ] increased, t = - 2. 210,- 2.006, P < 0.05. No significant difference existed in Grade Ⅱ , Ⅳ and Ⅴ discs ADC value, all the P >0.05. No significant difference existed in Grade Ⅱ and Ⅴ discs FA value, both the P > 0.05. Conclusions Short time axial loading mainly affect the mildly degenerated discs, the ADC value decreases and the disc diffusion ability decreases. No obvious change in ADC value or disc diffusion ability existed in the normal and severely degenerated discs.
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Objective To investigate the clinical value of three dimensional dynamic contrast enhanced MRA(3D DCE MRA)on esophageal and gastric varices compared with endoscopy.Methods From April 2003 to June 2008,153 patients with portal hypertension who underwent both 3D DCE MRA and endoscopy were reviewed retrospectively.All the patients were divided into bleeding group and non-bleeding group according to the clinical symptoms.The location and degree of the esophagogastric varices on 3D DCE MRA were assessed with postprocessing images,including subtraction,MIP and thin-slab maximum intensity projection(thin-MIP),and were compared with the results of endoscopy.The maximum,minimum and mean diameters of esophagogastric varices inside and outside of the wall were measured on the reformed images.The correlation between the findings of 3D DCE MRA and endoscopy were analyzed with Spearman rank correlation coefficient test The rates of esophagogastric varices outside of the wall in bleeding and non-bleeding group were compared by means of Chi-square test Results In bleeding group,severe esophageal varices were documented in 59 patients,moderate in 6 patients,mild in 5 patients;in non-bleeding group,severe esophageal varices were documented in 32 patients,moderate in 4 patients,mild in 5 patients.Severe,moderate,and mild gastric varices were documented in 28,34 and 16 in bleeding group,while they were 7,12 and 9 in non-bleeding group.Esophageal and gastric varices can be wholly presented on MIP images after subtraction,while the esophagogastric varices inside and outside of the wall can be differentiated on thin-MIP images.The location and degree of esophagogastric varices on 3D DCE MRA were correlated with the findings of the endoscopy.The range of r was from 0.544 to 0.878(P<0.01).In 91 patients with severe esophageal varices,27 patients presented outside esophageal varices in bleeding group(n=59)and 24 patients presented outside esophageal varices in non-bleeding group(n=32).There was a significant difference in ratio of outside esophageal varices between bleeding group and nonbleeding group(X~2=7.199,P<0.01).In 35 patients with severe gastric varices,22 patients showed adventitial gastric varices in bleeding group(n=28)and 4 patients showed adventitial gastric varices in non-bleeding group(n=7).The ratio of adventitial gastric varices in bleeding group was not significantly different from that of non-bleeding group(P=0.340).Conclusions 3D DCE MRA can display and differentiate the esophagogastric varices both inside and outside of the wall by three dimensional reconstruction.The results of 3D DCE MRA and endoscopy have good correlation.It is of importance in evaluating the esophageal varices outside of the wall,because they may indicate decreased risk of haemorrhage in patients with severe degree of esophageal varices.
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Objective The purpose of our study was to investigate three dimensional dynamic contrast enhanced MR angiography(3D DCE M RA) in the detection of portosystemic collateral circulation in the falciform ligament in patients with portal hypertension. Methods From April 2003 to July 2008, 53 portal hypertension patients with varices in the falciform ligament were evaluated with 3D DCE MRA.Two radiologists independently assessed the number, diameter, location and drainages of the portosystemic collateral circulation in the falciform ligament according to the information on the 3D DCE MRA.Results The veins in the falciform ligament were classified into the superior and inferior groups, and both groups arise from the left trunk of the portal vein.In our study, the number of varices detected on 3D DCE MRA images varied from 1 to 3, and the diameters of these vessels varied from 0.4 to 2.6 cm.The inferior group consisted of paraumbilical/umbilical veins (47 cases), which flowed toward umbilicus and then drained upwards (n = 16) including deep superior epigastric veins (n = 7), superficial superior epigastric veins (n = 9), downwards (n = 40) including deep inferior epigastric veins (n = 7), superficial inferior epigastric veins (n = 33), or upwards and downwards at the same time (n = 9).The superior group of vessels in the falciform ligament were directly anastomosed with the internal thoracic vessels (n = 6).Conclusion In patients with portal hypertension, 3D DCE MRA can optimally demonstrate the portosystemic collateral circulation in the falciform ligament, which includes the superior and inferior drainage groups.
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Objective To detect the distribution of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) after total-body irradiation in rats. Methods MSCs were cultured and labeled with green fluorescent protein(GFP). Rats were exposed to total-body irradiation(TB1) or TBI plus total brain irradiation, and then MSCs were injected through the tail vein. The Fluorescent MSCs were observed by fluorescence microscope. The MSCs numbers in different organs were determined by quantitative RT-PCR method. Results GFP-labeled MSCs were ob-tained. After MSCs were infused to the rats,few of them were observed in the organs of nonirradiated group except for a very low number in the lungs,bone marrow(BM) and spleen. TBI of 6 Gy increased the engraft-ment of MSCs in almost all the organs, especially in early response tissues such as the small intestine and BM. TBI of 7 Gy further increased the number of MSCs. The MSCs numbers in the brain and other organs were significantly increased after 20 Gy total brain irradiation in addition to 6 Gy TBI. Conclusions Radi-ation injury can induce the aggregation of MSCs. With the increase of radiation dose and severity of radiation injury,a significant increase of MSCs in different organs were observed. Local irradiation can increase the MSCs distribution in the radiation field as well as other organs.
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Objective To investigate the effect of slice orientation on the popliteomeniscal fasciculi (PMF) MR imaging and its normal MRI appearances. Methods Volumetric MRI data of 40 knees of healthy volunteers were acquired using an isotropic 3D turbo spin echo (TSE) MR sequence. The posterior tangential line to both femoral condyles was used as the reference line, and the long axis sectional images of the popliteal hiatus region were reformatted at 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90° to the reference line. The MRI appearances of the PMF were scored respectively and classified. The final scores of the PMF at each slice angle were statistically analyzed by a repeated measure ANOVA. Results At 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90° slice angles: scores of the anteroinferior fasciculi were (1.7±0.7), (1.8±0.6), (1.9±0.6), (2.0±0.7), (1.9±0.7), (1.8±0.8) and (1.0±0.5),respectively. Scores of the posterosuperior fasciculi were (1.5±0.7), (1.9±0.7), (2.1±0.6), (2.2±0.6),(2.2±0.6), (2.0±0.8) and (1.7±0.8), respectively. There were statistically significant differences in the average scores at each slice angle for both anteroinferior fasciculi (F = 29.744, P = 0.000) and posterosuperior fasciculi (F = 19.770,P =0.000). The anteroinferior fasciculi and the posterosuperior fasciculi had highest average scores at the angle of 45°. The percentage of type A, B and C of anteroinferior fascicali were 20.0% (8/40), 75.0% (30/40) and 5.0% (2/40), respectively. The percentage of type A, B and C of posterosuperior fasciculi were 37.5% (15/40) ,62.5% (25/40) and 0% (0/40) ,respectively. Conclusion The anteroinferior fasciculi and the posterosuperior fasciculi can be well depicted at the angle of 45° slice orientation.
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Objective To investigate the diagnostic value of strain ratio for differentiation breast benign and malignant solid lesions. Methods Two hundred and sixty-nine patients with 377 lesions (278 benign, 99 malignant) were included in the study. Ultrasonography found the lesions, then ultrasonic elastography got the strain images. By the strain ratio measure method equipped with the ultrasonic machine, strain ratio of the lesion was calculated. Compared with the pathologic diagnosis, the cut-off point of strain ratio was determined with receiver operating characteristic curve. Results There was significant difference between the strain ratio of benign and malignant lesions( P <0. 05). The cut off point of strain ratio was determined as 3. 08, Youden's index was 0. 88,sensitivity was 97. 38% ,and specificity was 91. 33%. Conclusions Strain ratio could be used to differentiate benign and malignant lesions in breast and would be a new diagnostic standard in future.
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Objective To evaluate the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of parenehyma and necrosis in distinguishing among metastatic lymph nodes, lymphoma and tuberculous lymph nodes. Methods Thirty-six patients with cervical lymph nodes metastasis from the head and neck squamous cell carcinomas,19 patients with lymphoma and 23 patients with lymph nodes tuberculosis underwent diffusion-weighted imaging. The ADC values were measured and compared in parenchyma and necrosis of 177 lymph nodes confirmed by histopathology (n = 114) and clinical follow-up (n = 63). The means between two groups were compared by t-test, and one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) was used to analyze the data among three or more groups. Results The mean ADC values of parenchyma in metastatic nodes, lymphoma and tuberculous nodes were (0.93±0.16) × 10-3mm2/s, (0.64±0.13) × 10-3mm2/s and (1.01±0.11) ×10 -3 mm2/s respectively (F = 82.928, P < 0.01) ; the ADC values of necrosis in metastatic and tuberculous nodes were (2.02 ± 0. 36) × 10-3 mm2/s and (1.25 ± 0.15) × 10-3 mm2/s respectively (t = 12.045, P <0.01). An ADC value of parenchyma lower than or equal to 0.77 × 10 -3mm2/s was used as the threshold for lymphoma, with a sensitivity 83% and specificity of 89%. An ADC value of necrotic area greater than or equal to 1.60 × 103mm2/s was used as the threshold for metastatic nodes, with a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 100%. Conclusion The ADC value of lymph nodes, especially for their internal necrotic areas, can help judge the nature of the cervical lymph nodes.
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Objective To evaluate the correlation between MRI and X-Ray discography findings and pain response at provocative discography in patients with discogenic back pain. Methods Two hundred and fifty-six lumbar intervertebral discs in 93 patients who underwent MRI and X-Ray discography were included in this study. MR images were retrospectively evaluated regarding disc degeneration, endplate abnormalities and high intensity zone. Disc degeneration was graded according to the modified criteria of Pearce, et el. Evaluation of disc morphology was performed with X-Ray discography by using the classification of Adams, et al. Endplates and adjacent bone marrow abnormalities were classified according to Modic,et al. During discography concordant pain was regarded as positive, whereas discordant pain and no pain were regarded as negative. The data were analyzed using the Chi-squnre test. Results There were 116 discs with concordant pain and 140 discs with discordant pain or no pain. Of 256 discs on discography, 17 discs were type Ⅰ17(6.6%),type Ⅱ were 25(9.8%),type Ⅲ were 91(35.5%), type Ⅳ were 77(30.1%) and type Ⅴ were 46(18.0% ). On MR images, discs of grade Ⅰ were 23 (9.0%) ,grade Ⅱ were 34(13.3%), grade Ⅲ were 84(32.8%), grade Ⅳ were 85 (33.2%) and grade Ⅴ were 30(11.7%). There was positive correlation between Pearce graded of MRI and classification of Adams of discography (r=0.62, X2 =160.87,P <0.01).In 123 discs of type Ⅳ to type Ⅴ on discography, 104 discs were with concordant pain. There was positive correlation between type Ⅳ-Ⅴ and concordant pain( r=0.60, X2 = 144.08, P < 0.01). In 115 discs of Ⅳ-Ⅴ grade degeneration, 99 discs presented with concordant pain. There was positive correlation between Ⅳ-Ⅴ grade disc degeneration and concordant作者单位:510120 广州,中山大学附属第二医院放射科 pain(r = 0.59, X2 = 137.11, P <0.01 ). In 60 discs with high intensity zone(HIZ), 52 discs presented with concordant pain. There was positive correlation between HIZ and concordant pain ( r=0.41, X2= 51.93, P <0.01 ). In 58 discs with endplate degeneration, 51 presented with concordant pain. There was positive correlation between Modic degeneration and concordant pain ( r = 0.41, X2= 52.76, P < 0.01 ). Conclusion In patients with chronic low back pain, MR imaging may present moderate to severe disc degeneration, high intensity zone, endplates and adjacent bone marrow abnormalities. MR findings with concordant pain can raise the diagnostic possibility of discogenic lumbar pain. Typical discography findings, fissured or ruptured disc, with concordant pain are important diagnostic evidence for discogenic lumbar pain.
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Objective To determine the feasibility of magnetically labeling and tracking mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)in vitro by using a gadolinium and fluorescent bi-functionally transfection agent of polyethylenimine.Methods A gadolinium bifunctional transfection reagent complex was obtained after the linear polyethylenimine derivative(JetPEI-FluoR)was incubated with Gd-DTPA.Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from the bone marrows of SD rats were cultured and expanded.The mesenchymal stem cells were incubated with the bi-functional labeling agents.After labeling,the MSCs were examined with fluoroscope and electron microscope and the biological characters were detected including trypan blue exclusion test,MTT,and apoptosis detection.On a 1.5 T MR system,the labeled MSCs were examined with spin echo T1 WI and T2 WI and T1 measurement with mixed sequence.After labeling,the cells were cultured and undergone routine passage.Prior MR examinations were repeated for each passage of labeled cells.All data was statistically prolessed with SPSS for Windows.Results Of 5×105 MSCs incubated with the bi-functional agents,4.25×105 MSCs were successfully labeled,the percentage of labeled MSCs was 85% fluoroscopically.The high density electron particles of gadolinium observed electron microscopically existed around cellular apparatuses,especially around Golgi apparatus.In trypan blue exclusion test,the exclusion rate of labeled MSCs with incubation duration of 3,6,12,24 h was(96.55±2.90)%,(94.17±2.56)%,(97.16±3.12)% and(94.23±2.67)%,respectively.The corresponding exclusion rate of unlabeled MSCs was(95.86±2.67)%,(92.04±2.21)%,(93.38±3.64)%and(92.12±2.53)%,respectively.There was no statistical difference of trypan blue exclusion rate between labeled cells and control unlabeled cells within 24 hours of incubation(F=4.523,P>0.05).In the proliferation test,the optical absorption value of labeled MSC with 2.5,5.0,10.0,20.0,30.0 and 40.0 μl bi-functional labeling agent was(0.1884±0.0151),(0.1878±0.0190),(0.1741±0.0160),(0.1135±0.0215),(0.1079±0.0145)and(0.0811±0.0079),respectively.The corresponding optical absorption value of unlabeled MSCs was(0.1940±0.0116).The optical absorption value of labeled cells was not affected in case of less than 30.0 μl of Gd-DTPA(q'=0.2225-0.9458,P>0.05).The apoptosis index for labeled cells and unlabeled cells were 5.08% and 3.86%,respectively.On T1 WI,the signal intensity and T1 relaxation time of unlabeled cells and labeled cells were 240.3±24.7 and(2457±56)ms,336.2±20.7 and(1102±64)ms,respectively,and there were significant statistical difference(t=12.656,17.889,P<0.01).The minimal amount of cells which was detectable for T1 WI was 5×103.After routine passage,the gadolinium in the cells gradually decreased and could be tracked by MRI until the fifth passage.Conclusions The gadolinium and fluorescent bi-functionally labeling rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell by using the transfection agent of polyethylenimine is feasible,efficient and safe.The labeled cells could be tracked in vitro on MR imaging.
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Objective To discuss the value of MR T2 mapping in the research of the biomechanics and function of cartilage of knee joint.Methods Knees of 20 healthy adults before and after jogging and 19 osteoarthritis patients were examined with sagittal 8-echo SE sequence.The T2 value of cartilage was selected and calculated.The T2 values in the superficial and deep cartilage of femoral and tibial joint before and after jogging were compared,so did between the osteoarthritis patients and healthy adults.The source images were sent to the workstation to get T2 mappings.The T2 value of cartilage between before and after jogging was compared with paired-samples t test.The T2 value between superficial and deep cartilage before jogging was compared with independent-samples t test,so did between the osteoarthritis patients and healthy adults.Results The T2 values in the superficial and the deep tibial cartilage were(48.8±6.3)ms,(44.3±5.7)ms before jogging and(43.4±5.0)ms,(40.3±6.1)ms after jogging.The T2 values were significantly different between before and after jogging(t=6.004 and t=5.037,P<0.05).There was a significant difference between superficial and deep tibial cartilage before jogging(t=3.148,P<0.01).The T2 Values in the superficial and deep femoral cartilage were(52.1±5.7)ms,(47.7±5.3)ms before jogging and(47.2±4.5)ms,(43.6±4.1)ms after jogging.The T2 values were significantly different between before and after jogging(t=6.169 and t=5.957,P<0.05).There was a significant difference between superficial and deep femoral cartilage before jogging(t=3.384,P<0.01).The T2 mapping showed those changes.The mean T2 value in the tibial cartilage of osteoarthritis patients was(56.0±9.1)ms and was higher than that of healthy adults.There was a significent difference between osteoarthritis patients and healthy adults(t=-3.446,P<0.01).Conclusion T2 mapping can be used in the research of biomechanics and function of cartilage and has a prelimilary value in the diagnosis of cartilage degeneration.
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Objective To evaluate the tumor targeting characteristic of the Folate-SPIO-DOX-Micelles by in vitro studies,and to test the feasibility of monitor tumor targeting using it and clinical MRI.Methods The polymeric micelles,Folate-SPIO-DOXO-Micelles were prepared.The in vitro tumor cell targeting efficacy of these folate modified and DOX or SPIO-loaded micelles (Folate-SPIO-DOX-Micelles)was evaluated by observing the cellular uptake of micelles by human hepatic carcinoma cells(Bel 7402 cells) which overexpressed folate surface receptors. Cell suspensions were incubated with Folate-SPIO-DOXO-Micelles for 1 h.Prussian blue staining was performed to show intracellular irons.Flow cytometry was used to further quantify the cellular uptake of the nanoparticles into Bel 7402 cells.MRl was performed to show the signal intensity changes by using T2 WI sequences at a clinical 1.5 T MR system.Results Prussian blue staining showed much more intracellular iron in cells incubated with Folate-SPIO-DOX-Micelles than the cells incubated with the non-targeting SPIO-DOX-Micelles.As revealed by flow cytometry,the mean fluorescence intensity of cells in the folate group and the non-folate group were 117.88 and 46.33,respectively.The T2 signal intensity in MRI of cells treated with the folate targeting micelles decreased significantly (when the concentration of SPIO in cell culture medium was 5,10,20,40,and 80 μg/ml,respectively,T2 signal intensity decreased by -5.02%,-23.58%,-45.89%,-70.34%,and -92.41%,respectively).In contrast,T2 signal intensity did not show obvious decrease for cells treated with the folate-free micelles (when the concentration of SPIO in cell culture medium was at 5,10,20,40,and 80 μg/ml,respectively,T2 signal intensity decreased by -3.77%,-2.16%,-2.18%,-2.74% and -19.77%,respectively).Conclusion The polymeric micelles,Folate-SPIO-DOX-Micelles has good targeting ability to the hepatic carcinoma cells in vitro,and the cell targeting events of the micelles can be monitored by using a clinical MR scanner.
ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the influence of MRI on the T, N staging system, 5(th) edition, UICC and the 92 staging system, China by comparing CT and MRI of the nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From 1993 to Dec. 2000, fifty-six NPC patients proved by pathology underwent CT and MRI examination with Philip T5-II ultra-magnetic system (0.5T) and Elscient CT twin flash. Routine axial scans by CT and SE sequence with axial, sagittal and coronal scans by MRI from oral pharynx (lower border of second cervical vertebra) to supracellar cistern were done with enhancement (50/56).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The tumor beyond the nasopharyngeal cavity was accurately defined because the pharyngobasilar fascia could be seen by MRI which appeared to be more sensitive than CT in revealing the invaded soft tissues surrounding the nasopharyngeal cavity, such as longus colli (14 by CT and 26 by MRI), tensor veli palatini and levator veli palatini (17 by CT and 42 by MRI), the skull base erosion (15 by CT and 23 by MRI) and enlargement of retropharyngeal lymph nodes (13 by CT and 24 by MRI). As a result, 28.6% (16/56) of NPC staging system, UICC and 33.9% (19/56) of the 92 staging system of China should undergo changes.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>MRI is able to reveal the invasion extent into the structures around the tumor mass more accurately than CT, with the pharyngobasilar fascia readily seen and the infiltration and/or destruction of the skull base more easily visualized by MRI than by CT. The impact of MRI upon the 92 staging system of China lies in the differentiation of direct infiltration by the tumor from the enlargement of the retropharyngeal lymph node and the early detection of skull base erosion. The Influence of MRI on the staging system of NPC is more pronounced than that of CT.</p>