Perfusion imaging in neuro-oncology: basic techniques and clinical applications

Perfusion imaging is a method for assessing the flow of blood occurring at the tissue level and can be accomplished by both CT and MR perfusion techniques. The use of perfusion imaging has increased substantially in the past decade, particularly in neuro-oncologic imaging, where it is has been used for brain tumor grading and directing biopsies or targeted therapy, as well as for the evaluation of treatment response and disease progression. This article discusses the basic principles and techniques of perfusion imaging, as well as its applications in neuro-oncology.