Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of the kidney

After being first used for liver imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging of the kidney is in development. The kidney is the only anisotropic organ in the abdomen. It is a complex organ, with different types of flow, that is the subject of multiple research projects. Diffusion-weighted imaging is very sensitive for the detection of tumors, especially small ones. It also facilitates lesion characterization with the help of ADC values. Diffusion restriction indicates hypercellularity, which suggests malignancy. Diffusion-weighted imaging is currently available on clinical scanners. Characterization of different types of collections is possible. The characterization of nephropathies remains investigational.