MRI in Prostate Cancer

Abstract

MR imaging of the prostate emerged as a new diagnostic tool for the study of prostate cancer in the mid-1980s. Ever since new MR techniques have evolved making MR prostate imaging a promising modality for detecting and staging of the prostate tumors. Basic morphologic sequences (T1-weighted (T1W)and T2-weighted (T2W)) in combination with recent advances which include functional and physiologic MR imaging techniques allow a more sophisticated approach of the prostate cancer, adding new information beyond the traditional morphologic assessment. In addition, the quality of the performed MRI exams of the prostate is essentially improved using new imaging unit hardware and software. Another era of advance is the development of MR-compatible devices, allowing invasive procedures as targeted prostate biopsy to be performed. Despite the undoubtful advance there are a lot of challenges to confront with in MR imaging. Technical issues have to be solved in order to overcome inherent limitations of functional sequences (artifacts, low spatial and temporal resolution, complicated post processing software, and lack of standardization). Variable biological signatures of prostate cancer require a deeply sophisticated approach taking into account MR imaging together with other biomarker and clinical data so that the best treatment choice will be done for a given clinical situation.