MR imaging of the prostate

There is no set protocol for imaging prostate cancer, and a selection of a particular modality (TRUS, CT or MRI) often depends on the equipment and local expertise available. None of the imaging modality is perfect and a judicious combination provides the best results. MR imaging and MR spectroscopic imaging are powerful new tools for the local anatomic and metabolic evaluation of prostate cancer. MRI/MRSI offers new insights into the assessment of tumor location, volume, and aggressiveness and improve staging. The techniques are novel; indications and effectiveness continue to be defined; examination is expensive and the potential role of these studies still evolving. However, with increasing patient demand for minimally invasive and patient specific treatment, it is likely that the prostate MRI and MRSI will become the recognized modality of choice for loco-regional imaging evaluation of prostate cancer. © 2002 International Cancer Imaging Society.