Multi-exponential model of diffusion signal with fixed ADCs in healthy and cancerous cervix tissues

Restriction spectrum imaging (RSI) has shown potential to become a DWI-based, contrast-free diagnostic tool for cancer as it separates the different water pools in tissues. Here, we describe the diffusion signal of cancerous and healthy cervical tissues using RSI. Multi-exponential models with fixed ADCs were determined and the signal contribution of each component estimated. Initial results indicate that the slowest diffusion compartment of a tetra-exponential RSI model has the potential to isolate cervical cancer signal from that of surrounding tissues. This model may increase the sensitivity and specificity of DWI to evaluate response to treatment of cervical cancer patients.