Development and optimization of human deuterium MRSI at 3 T in the abdomen: feasibility in renal tumors following oral heavy water administration

Purpose To establish and optimize abdominal deuterium MRSI in conjunction with orally administered 2 H-labelled molecules. Methods A flexible transmit-receive surface coil was used to image naturally abundant deuterium signal in phantoms and healthy volunteers and after orally administered 2 H 2 O in a patient with a benign renal tumor (oncocytoma). Results Water and lipid peaks were fitted with high confidence from both unlocalized spectra and from voxels within the liver, kidney, and spleen on spectroscopic imaging. Artifacts were minimal despite the high 2 H 2 O concentration in the stomach immediately after ingestion, which can be problematic with the use of a volume coil. Conclusion We have shown the feasibility of abdominal deuterium MRSI at 3 T using a flexible surface coil. Water measurements were obtained in healthy volunteers and images were acquired in a patient with a renal tumor after drinking 2 H 2 O. The limited depth penetration of the surface coil may have advantages in characterizing early uptake of orally administered agents in abdominal organs despite the high concentrations in the stomach which can pose challenges with other coil combinations.