Lymphotropic nanoparticle-enhanced MRI in prostate cancer: value and therapeutic potential

Curr Urol Rep. 2014 Mar;15(3):389. doi: 10.1007/s11934-013-0389-7.

Abstract

Nodal staging in prostate cancer is suboptimal both with respect to current imaging modalities and pelvic lymph node dissection, and thus other techniques are being explored. Lymphotropic nanoparticle-enhanced MRI, also called magnetic resonance lymphography (MRL), is a technique that has shown high sensitivity (65-92 %) and excellent specificity (93-98 %) in detecting prostate cancer lymph node metastases. This technique aids in the detection of metastases in non-enlarged small nodes. MRL has been useful in determining the location and pathways of spread in nodal chains. Knowledge of the location of lymph node involvement is important for decisions regarding appropriate therapeutic options, such as image-guided therapy.. A geographic miss in radiotherapy can be avoided with the use of MRL-guided focal therapy. This paper provides an overview of current literature, lessons learned, and new therapeutic options with nanoparticle-enhanced MRI.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media*
  • Dextrans*
  • Humans
  • Lymph Node Excision
  • Lymphatic Irradiation / methods
  • Lymphatic Metastasis
  • Lymphography / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Magnetite Nanoparticles*
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Radiotherapy, Image-Guided / methods
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Dextrans
  • Magnetite Nanoparticles
  • ferumoxtran-10