MR carotid plaque imaging

There is growing evidence that not only Significant carotid stenosis but also the presence of "vulnerable plaque" in the carotid become a risk factor for cerebrovascular ischemic events. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a useful tool to evaluate carotid plaque characteristics. Multicontrast carotid plaque MRI, including both bright-blood and black-blood imaging, can identify lipid-rich/necrotic core, intraplque hemorrhage, fibrous tissue and fibrous cap status. Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide- or small superparamagnetic iron oxide-enhanced MRI can image macrophage accumulation or inflammation. Some examples of characteristic plaque MR images were demonstrated. Results of clinical trials based on carotid plaque MRI are also introduced.