Diffusion-weighted MRI in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract

In this thesis we study the use of diffusion weighted MRI (DW-MRI) in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). DW-MRI is an established technique in the early detection of acute stroke, and is increasingly subject of research in several oncologic imaging applications. (1- 3) DW-MRI can be performed with most standard MR systems, takes only a few minutes and needs no contrast agent administration. The main goal of this thesis is to evaluate the potential of DW-MRI to add value to the current clinical practice in treatment of HNSCC. From early after diagnosis, in tumor characterization, to later on in the post treatment phase in early detection of recurrent disease.