Investigation of Cervix Tumor Oxygenation and Microvasculature Using Magnetic Resonance Techniques

MRI is already used routinely in the radiation planning and staging of carcinoma of the cervix. Prognostic factors such as T-stage (local extent), tumor size and lymphadenopathy are routinely obtained from MRI, however some prognostic parameters can only be obtained invasively. Tumor oxygenation correlates with prognosis and response to treatment in patients undergoing radiotherapy for carcinoma of the cervix. Interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) has been shown to correlate with tumor oxygenation as well. Currently the only way to measure these parameters is by using an invasive technique which involves the placement of probes into the tumor and obtaining multiple measurements.

Recent studies have shown that a specific MRI pulse sequences may be able to measure the oxygenation in the microcirculation. A second way of assessing the tumor microvasculature and perfusion is based on the behavior of intravenous contrast agents routinely used in the MRI examination. Estimates of blood volume, and capillary permeability can be made by mathematically modeling the kinetics of an MRI contrast agent. Similar measurements can be performed with CT.

A total of 60 patients will be investigated. Additional images will be obtained from these patients after their routine MRI examination. One set of images is designed to measure a parameter that correlates with tumor oxygen levels. The second set of images will be obtained after the injection of intravenous contrast agent. Using mathematical models a number of parameters will be extracted and correlated with IFP and tumor oxygen measurements.