Quantitative susceptibility mapping as a biomarker of hemorrhage and renal function decline in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

Motivation: Quantification of hemorrhage in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) provides an early window into ongoing cystogenesis before its consequences can be detected in conventional clinical imaging. Goal(s): Our goal was to demonstrate the utility of quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) in ADPKD by studying association of hemorrhagic cyst quantification and renal function decline. Approach: Renal QSM images were reconstructed in 34 patients, paramagnetic cysts were quantified, and their load was compared against the eGFR values crossectionally. Results: Herein, we present preliminary cross-sectional data that demonstrate strong association between QSM and decreased eGFR in ADPKD patients, supporting further longitudinal studies to confirm this finding. Impact: Accurate identification of patients at greater risk of rapid disease progression for optimal targeted drug intervention (tolvaptan), improving patient'squality of life by minimizing exposure to adverse side effects associated with the life-long treatment such aspolyuria, pollakiuria polydipsia, and drug's hepatotoxicity.