MR‑based proton density fat fractions of the vertebral bone marrow and paraspinal muscle are associated with BMD from QCT in patients with LBP

Motivation: The relationship between vertebral bone mineral density (BMD) and fat composition of adjacent vertebral body and paraspinal muscle in patients with low back pain (LBP) remains unclear. Goal(s): To investigate the association between vertebral BMD and the fat fractions of vertebral bone marrow and paraspinal muscle in LBP patients. Approach: A retrospective study was conducted on LBP patients who underwent both quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and chemical shift-encoded MRI examinations. Results: Age, fat fractions of bone marrow and psoas major are independent factors that influence vertebral bone mineral density. Impact: The fat fraction of vertebral bone marrow and paraspinal muscles independently influences bone mineral density. The MR-based fat fractions may potentially predict osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures without radiation, providing a safer way to diagnose osteoporotic vertebral fractures and associated complications.