At Resonance Health, we continually strive to advance our understanding and capabilities in medical imaging, particularly in the measurement of tissue iron. Recent developments in MRI technology have opened new avenues for accurately assessing iron levels in various organs, providing critical insights for conditions like hereditary hemochromatosis and thalassemia. Here’s a closer look at these advancements and their implications.
Overcoming Challenges in MRI Iron Measurements
Despite technological advancements, the widespread availability of MRI technology to assess iron levels has been limited by the technical complexity and expertise required. High-quality image acquisition and analysis need trained professionals and specially developed methods, as well as rigorous quality control. In particular, there is a growing demand for 3T MRI systems in medical imaging field due to their ability to provide higher resolution images and more efficiency compared to the 1.5T systems. However, more technical challenges are to be overcome to measure iron accurately by 3T MRI systems.
To address these challenges, Resonance Health developed FerriScan®, a system where MRI centres worldwide could send image data scanned either by 1.5T or 3T scanners to expert analysts for accurate LIC measurement. This system has been invaluable for hospitals treating patients and pharmaceutical companies developing and accessing drug efficacy with conditions like thalassemia, who require frequent and precise iron measurements.
Introducing FerriSmart®: The Future of Automated MRI Iron Measurement
In a significant leap forward, Resonance Health has harnessed artificial intelligence to create FerriSmart®, an automated system for calculating LIC from MRI images. This system simplifies the process: radiologists can upload image data into a secure portal hosting the software, which then provides a LIC report within seconds. FerriSmart® maintains the high standards of FerriScan® and is compatible with a wide range of MRI scanners, ensuring broader accessibility.
Liver iron concentration measurement through MRI is a powerful tool in diagnosing and managing conditions like hereditary hemochromatosis and thalassemia. With the advent of FerriSmart®, we are making this technology more accessible, offering rapid, reliable results at a lower cost. As we continue to expand the availability of these advanced imaging solutions, we remain committed to enhancing patient care and supporting clinicians with precise, non-invasive diagnostic tools.
Measuring Iron in Other Organs
MRI technology is also capable of assessing iron in the heart using the CardiacT2* technique which has regulatory approval for routine clinical practice. This method is frequently used in patients with thalassemia to monitor cardiac iron levels. Similarly, for investigational purposes, MRI can measure iron in the bone marrow, another suspected target organ. While not many studies have focused on this, there is evidence that patients with hereditary hemochromatosis can have excess iron in their bone marrow.
The spleen plays a crucial role in recycling iron from old or damaged red blood cells. Excess iron can be found in the spleen, due to different conditions, such as, hemochromatosis, and regular blood transfusion dependent patients, which can lead to several health issues. Accurate spleen iron measure can be important for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help manage the condition and prevent complications. The pancreas is another organ under investigation. Historically, hereditary hemochromatosis has been associated with diabetes, suggesting a link to pancreatic iron overload. Although MRI techniques for measuring pancreatic iron are still investigational, they hold promise for future clinical use. Additionally, iron accumulation in the spleen is typically not expected in hereditary hemochromatosis but is a significant marker in ferroportin disease, which can initially present similarly to hemochromatosis.
The Role of MRI in Assessing Liver Fat
An important complementary measurement to liver iron concentration (LIC) is the assessment of liver fat with HepaFatSmart®. Using MRI, we can quickly determine the presence of fatty liver, which can influence serum ferritin levels. This dual measurement can clarify ambiguities in diagnosing the cause of elevated ferritin, providing a clearer picture of a patient’s condition.
What to Expect During a FerriScan® or FerriSmart® MRI
For patients, the procedure is completely non-invasive, with no need for injections or contrast agents. Patients lie on a scanner bed with a radio antenna placed on their abdomen, wearing earmuffs or headphones to protect against the scanner’s noise. The data acquisition takes about 8 minutes, during which patients must remain still and breathe gently.
We understand that some patients may feel nervous or claustrophobic. To mitigate this, the scanner tube is open at both ends, with fresh air circulating, and patients can always communicate with the radiographer. Patients can also hold a device to alert the radiographer if they feel uncomfortable, and they can enter the scanner feet first if preferred. Closing eyes or using a blindfold, along with listening to relaxing music, can also help ease anxiety.
How can Resonance Health help?
Our regulatory cleared products, FerriScan®, FerriSmart®and CardiacT2*[CC1] can analyse iron level with high reliability. These methods use MRI method which is non-invasive and painless. Contact us to know more here – https://www.resonancehealth.com/contact-us/.