http://www.appliedradiology.com RSS Feed on Applied Radiologyhttp://www.appliedradiology.com//Issues/2002/12/Supplements/Potential-clinical-applications-of-magnetic-resonance-imaging-of-hyperpolarized-helium-and-xenon.aspxMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of hyperpolarized helium is a newly developed technique that enables high-resolution imaging of the pulmonary airways and alveolar airspaces. Hyperpolarized xenon can also be used in MRI, and has great promise for spectroscopic imaging in applications such as tumor characterization. This article will explain the rationale for the use of these hyperpolarized gases. Potential clinical applications of hyperpolarized gas MRI are outlined, including the evaluation of asthma, cystic fibrosis, lung transplant rejection, early changes of smoking-induced lung disease, and tumor characterization. Hyperpolarized gas imaging is not yet in widespread clinical use. However, current research will likely lead to clinical applications in these and other conditions in the near future.Tuesday, 04 Mar 2003 16:06:08 GMT