Quantitative assessment of angiogenesis of rabbit liver tumors by using fiat detector CT in the angiography suite / 介入放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the feasibility of quantitatively evaluating angiogenesis in liver tumors by using flat detector computed tomography (FDCT) in the angiography suite.Methods The VX2 liver tumor model was established in 25 rabbits,and then FDCT examination was performed for each animal.After reconstructing the blood volume (BV) perfusion map,BV values of the hepatic tumor and parenchyma were measured respectively.All experimental rabbits were sacrificed after FDCT,and the corresponding tumor specimens were collected for measuring microvessel density (MVD) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression level.The relationships of BV values with MVD and VEGF expression in liver tumors were analyzed.Results Of the 25 experimental rabbits,FDCT examination was successfully accomplished in 22(88.0％).Both the hepatic parenchyma and tumor lesions could be clearly visualized on BV perfusion map.The hepatic tumor was characterized by a hyperperfusion rim with a hypoperfusion center,known as rim-like enhancement pattern,on BV perfusion map.BV values bore a close relationship to both MVD grade and VEGF grade (P＜0.05 in both),while MVD grade had a parallel relationship with VEGF grade (r=0.504,P＜ 0.001).Conclusion It is feasible to use FDCT in the angiography suite to quantitatively assess the angiogenesis of liver tumors.It may be helpful for interventional treatment of liver tumors.