Enhancing fraction measured using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI predicts disease-free survival in patients with carcinoma of the cervix.

Abstract

Background:There is a need for simple imaging parameters capable of predicting therapeutic outcome.Methods:This retrospective study analysed 50 patients with locally advanced carcinoma of the cervix who underwent dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI before receiving potentially curative radiotherapy. The proportion of enhancing pixels (E(F)) in the whole-tumour volume post-contrast agent injection was calculated and assessed in relation to disease-free survival (DFS).Results:Tumours with high E(F) had a significantly poorer probability of DFS than those with low E(F) (P=0.011).Interpretation:E(F) is a simple imaging biomarker that should be studied further in a multi-centre setting.