Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Methods and Biologic Applications by Pottumarthi V. Prasad, ed.
Humana Press, November 2005, Towota, NJ, $135
In his preface, the editor mentions that every reader may find some aspects of the book useful. The majority of the material in this book is related to basic science and there is no coverage of clinical image interpretation. As a radiology resident, I sought information that would help me become a better practitioner, and found what I was looking for.
Fortunately, I didn't have to look much further than the introduction, which discusses the basics of MRI, without overcomplicating and belaboring the issue. The language is clear and easy to read, and the diagrams, though simple, are very helpful. The principles of this modality are explained from the very start of MRI development so a beginner shouldn't feel stranded.
The introduction continues with an excellent discussion of MRI microscopy, which includes several valuable sections on image quality as a function of signal to noise ratio, spatial resolution and contrast. Overcoming the limitations of MRI is also covered.
This introduction alone is helpful, but the book doesn't stop there. There is a very informative chapter on targeted contrast agents, detailing current use and future applications. There's also an interesting -- though somewhat intricate -- section on MR perfusion imaging that provides a glimpse into quantitative blood flow measurements of the brain and other organs. There is even a section on analysis of myocardial metabolism via MRI spectroscopy!
While the aforementioned sections successfully take on more sophisticated topics, basic science is still the overall focus. Highlighted topics include imaging of embryonic and fetal development, morphologic phenotyping with MRI, and MR in preclinical drug development.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Methods and Biologic Applications offers something of interest for MRI novices as well as more experienced practitioners.
By Dr. Mikhail SerebrennikAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
February 16, 2006
Dr. Serebrennik is a third year diagnostic radiology resident at a university hospital in the northeastern U.S.
The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of AuntMinnie.com.
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