Three-dimensional magnetization-prepared, rapid gradient-echo imaging of nasopharyngeal cancer

This paper demonstrates the utility of a newly developed three-dimensional gradient-echo sequence (MP-RAGE) in depicting normal nasopharyngeal anatomy and in patients with nasopharyngeal or base of skull pathology. This sequence uses a three-stage data collection technique: magnetization preparation via a 180 degrees pulse, a rapid gradient-echo data collection period, and a period of magnetization recovery. Multiplanar reconstructions can be obtained instantaneously. The total imaging time is 5.5 minutes. To date, six normal volunteers and four patients with nasopharyngeal pathology have been imaged. Pathologic correlation is available for all the patient