Application of T1 Map Information Based on Synthetic MRI for Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Imaging: A Comparison Study with the Fixed Baseline T1 Value Method

OBJECTIVE: For an accurate dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI analysis, exact baseline T1 mapping is critical. The purpose of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetic parameters of DCE MRI using synthetic MRI with those using fixed baseline T1 values. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 102 patients who underwent both DCE and synthetic brain MRI. Two methods were set for the baseline T1: one using the fixed value and the other using the T1 map from synthetic MRI. The volume transfer constant (K(trans)), volume of the vascular plasma space (v(p)), and the volume of the extravascular extracellular space (v(e)) were compared between the two methods. The interclass correlation coefficients and the Bland-Altman method were used to assess the reliability. RESULTS: In normal-appearing frontal white matter (WM), the mean values of K(trans), v(e), and v(p) were significantly higher in the fixed value method than in the T1 map method. In the normal-appearing occipital WM, the mean values of v(e) and v(p) were significantly higher in the fixed value method. In the putamen and head of the caudate nucleus, the mean values of K(trans), v(e), and v(p) were significantly lower in the fixed value method. In addition, the T1 map method showed comparable interobserver agreements with the fixed baseline T1 value method. CONCLUSION: The T1 map method using synthetic MRI may be useful for reflecting individual differences and reliable measurements in clinical applications of DCE MRI.