Regional Reliability of Quantitative Signal Targeting with Alternating Radiofrequency (STAR) Labeling of Arterial Regions (QUASAR)

• DOI: 10.1111/jon.12076
• Publication Date: 2014-02-24T17:52:24Z
• Authors: Yasuko Tatewaki; Shuichi Higano; Yasuyuki Taki; Benjamin Thyreau; Takaki Murata; Shunji Mugikura; Daisuke Ito; Kei Takase; Shoki Takahashi
• Keywords: Arterial spin labeling

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Quantitative signal targeting with alternating radiofrequency labeling of arterial regions (QUASAR) is a recent spin technique that could improve the reliability brain perfusion measurements. Although it considered reliable for measuring gray matter as whole, has never been evaluated regionally. Here we assessed this regional reliability. METHODS Using 3‐Tesla Philips Achieva whole‐body system, scanned four times 10 healthy volunteers, in two sessions 2 weeks apart, to obtain QUASAR images. We computed images and ran voxel‐based analysis within all structures. also calculated mean cerebral blood flow (rCBF) interest configured each territory distribution. RESULTS The CBF over whole was 37.74 intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) .70. In white matter, 13.94 an ICC .30. Voxel‐wise coefficient‐of‐variation maps showed relatively lower watershed areas especially deeper matter. absolute rCBF values were consistent ones reported from PET, low variability different feeding arteries. CONCLUSIONS Thus, high but uncertain