Methodological development of multiparametric, multimetabolic and USPIO-enhanced MR imaging at 7 Tesla for characterizing and staging prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a common male malignancy, and accurate staging is essential to guide treatment. This thesis explores advanced MRI techniques to improve prostate cancer characterization and lymph node assessment.

A semi-LASER MR spectroscopy sequence enabled faster, high-resolution metabolic imaging. Multiparametric MRI at 7 Tesla was feasible, providing unprecedented spatial resolution for T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted, and ¹H/³¹P spectroscopy. High-resolution pelvic lymph node imaging, including USPIO-enhanced MRI, showed potential for detecting small metastases.

Overall, these innovations advance precise, non-invasive prostate cancer staging and may guide personalized management.