Combined acquisition and data processing strategies for optimized MR spectroscopic imaging of the prostate

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (¹H MRSI) enables non-invasive mapping of metabolites in the prostate, improving detection, localization, and characterization of prostate cancer when combined with multiparametric MRI (mpMRI). This thesis focused on advancing ¹H MRSI for clinical use by developing automated quality control, robust acquisition sequences, and methods for absolute metabolite quantification without water suppression.

High-resolution 3D MRSI allowed reliable imaging of choline and citrate, highlighting tumor regions and aggressiveness. Integration with PET further enhanced detection and characterization. These innovations pave the way for routine clinical adoption, offering precise, metabolite-based guidance for prostate cancer diagnosis, biopsy, and personalized treatment planning.