Multiparametric Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Evaluating Renal Allograft Injury

Korean J Radiol. 2019 Jun;20(6):894-908. doi: 10.3348/kjr.2018.0540.

Abstract

Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with end-stage renal disease, as it extends survival and increases quality of life in these patients. However, chronic allograft injury continues to be a major problem, and leads to eventual graft loss. Early detection of allograft injury is essential for guiding appropriate intervention to delay or prevent irreversible damage. Several advanced MRI techniques can offer some important information regarding functional changes such as perfusion, diffusion, structural complexity, as well as oxygenation and fibrosis. This review highlights the potential of multiparametric MRI for noninvasive and comprehensive assessment of renal allograft injury.

Keywords: Allograft dysfunction; Allograft fibrosis; Functional MRI; Kidney transplantation; Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Elasticity Imaging Techniques / methods*
  • Fibrosis / diagnosis
  • Fibrosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Kidney / diagnostic imaging*
  • Kidney / injuries*
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / surgery
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Perfusion
  • Quality of Life / psychology