Analysis Toolboxes for Perfusion MRI
This page provides an overview of software tools and packages designed for the analysis of contrast-agent based perfusion MRI data.
Overview
Perfusion MRI analysis toolboxes provide implementations of various algorithms for quantifying perfusion parameters from DCE-MRI and DSC-MRI data. These tools facilitate the conversion of signal intensity time courses into quantitative perfusion metrics using pharmacokinetic models and other quantification approaches.
Available Analysis Toolboxes
QIN-PROQC (Quantitative Imaging Network - Perfusion Research Oncology Quality Control)
Developer: Quantitative Imaging Network (QIN)
Repository: GitHub Repository
Description: A MATLAB-based platform for quality control and standardization of DCE-MRI analysis in oncology. It includes implementations of several tracer kinetic models including Tofts, Extended Tofts, and Patlak.
ROCKETSHIP
Developer: Stanford University
Repository: GitHub Repository
Description: A MATLAB-based toolkit for kinetic modeling of DCE-MRI data. It provides a comprehensive workflow from T1 mapping to parametric map generation.
PkModeling
Developer: Quantitative Image Informatics for Cancer Research (QIICR)
Repository: GitHub Repository
Description: A C++ library for pharmacokinetic analysis of DCE-MRI, integrated with 3D Slicer via the PkModeling extension.
DCE-MRI.jl
Developer: Julia MRI community
Repository: GitHub Repository
Description: A Julia package for DCE-MRI analysis with implementations of various pharmacokinetic models and AIF estimation methods.
DCE-Tool
Developer: Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance
Website: DCE-Tool Website
Description: A MATLAB-based tool for DCE-MRI analysis with a graphical user interface, supporting multiple pharmacokinetic models.
DSCoMAN (DSC-MRI Analysis)
Developer: Medical College of Wisconsin
Website: DSCoMAN Website
Description: A software package for the analysis of DSC-MRI data, providing relative and absolute cerebral blood flow, blood volume, and mean transit time maps.
Perfusion BASIL
Developer: FMRIB Centre, University of Oxford
Website: BASIL Website
Description: Although primarily designed for arterial spin labeling, BASIL includes tools that can be adapted for contrast-based perfusion analysis.
Comparison of Key Features
| Toolbox | Platform | Models Supported | GUI | AIF | Open Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QIN-PROQC | MATLAB | Tofts, ETM, Patlak | Yes | Manual, Auto | Yes |
| ROCKETSHIP | MATLAB | Tofts, ETM, 2CXM | Yes | Manual, Auto | Yes |
| PkModeling | C++/3D Slicer | Tofts, ETM | Yes | Manual | Yes |
| DCE-MRI.jl | Julia | Tofts, ETM, 2CXM | No | Manual, Auto | Yes |
| DCE-Tool | MATLAB | Tofts, ETM, 2CXM | Yes | Manual | Yes |
| DSCoMAN | MATLAB | SVD, cSVD | Yes | Auto | Yes |
| BASIL | C++/FSL | Kinetic models | Yes | N/A | Yes |
How to Select an Analysis Toolbox
Consider the following factors when selecting a toolbox for your perfusion MRI analysis:
- Compatibility: Ensure the toolbox works with your data format and operating system
- Models implemented: Check if the toolbox includes the pharmacokinetic models you need
- Validation: Look for toolboxes that have been validated in published literature
- Support and documentation: Consider the availability of documentation and user support
- Customizability: Determine if you need to modify or extend the existing analysis methods
Contributing
If you have developed an analysis toolbox for contrast-agent based perfusion MRI that you would like to add to this list, please see our contribution guidelines.
References
- Sourbron SP, Buckley DL. Tracer kinetic modelling in MRI: estimating perfusion and capillary permeability. Phys Med Biol. 2012;57(2):R1-33.
- Heye AK, et al. Assessment of blood-brain barrier disruption using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI. A systematic review. NeuroImage Clin. 2014;6:262-74.
- Jahng GH, et al. Perfusion magnetic resonance imaging: a comprehensive update on principles and techniques. Korean J Radiol. 2014;15(5):554-77.