The effect of fasting on renal phase contrast and arterial spin labelling

Motivation: Variations in dietary conditions can impact renal blood flow (RBF), but it is currently unknown whether fasting overnight can affect the measurement. A recent consensus for phase contrast (PC) advises against fasting, but similar consensus for arterial spin labelling (ASL) was not reached. Other laboratory tests might require fasting, leading to variability in preparation for MRI. It is therefore critical to understand whether fasting affects the measurementGoal(s): This study investigates the effect of fasting compared to the recommended MRI preparation. Approach: ASL and PC acquired in healthy volunteers. Results: No significant difference between fasting and consensus-preparation was found for RBF and perfusion. Impact: A strict control for diet may not be required for MRI studies measuring renal blood flow and perfusion using phase contrast and arterial spin labelling.