Relationship Between Ktrans and K1 with Simultaneous Versus Separate MR/PET in Rabbits with VX2 Tumors

Background/Aim: To compare the relationship between Ktrans from DCE-MRI and K1 from dynamic (NNH3)-N-13- PET, with simultaneous and separate MR/PET in the VX-2 rabbit carcinoma model. Materials and Methods: MR/PET was performed simultaneously and separately, 14 and 15 days after VX-2 tumor implantation at the paravertebral muscle. The Ktrans and K-1 values were estimated using an in-house software program. The relationships between Ktrans and K-1 were analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficients and linear/non-linear regression function. Results: Assuming a linear relationship, Ktrans and K-1 exhibited a moderate positive correlations with both simultaneous ( r=0.54-0.57) and separate ( r=0.53-0.69) imaging. However, while the Ktrans and K-1 from separate imaging were linearly correlated, those from simultaneous imaging exhibited a non-linear relationship. The amount of change in K-1 associated with a unit increase in Ktrans varied depending on Ktrans values. Conclusion: The relationship between K-trans and K-1 may be mis-interpreted with separate MR and PET acquisition.