MR imaging of atherosclerotic plaque

MR imaging is a promising method for imaging of atherosclerotic plaque. Recent advances have validated MR measures of plaque location and volume in the vessel wall in the aorta, carotid arteries, and even coronary arteries and the ability to follow plaque volume serially. As spatial and temporal resolution has advanced, MR imaging is able to measure not only the thickness of the vessel wall and plaque but also to characterize directly components of atherosclerotic plaque such as the lipid core, the fibrous cap, calcium, and thrombus. Newer approaches include intravascular and transesophageal MR imaging techniques for improving plaque imaging. Standard contrast agents and novel contrast agents in development are used to identify various components of plaque, The state-of-the-art of MR imaging of atherosclerotic plaque is reviewed in this article.