Phase-Based R2 Mapping for Single Breath-Hold Whole-Liver Iron Quantification : Clinical Validation

Motivation: Liver iron overload can cause serious complications; accurate assessment is essential. Current R2 mapping techniques are limited by long scan times and fat-induced bias. Goal(s): To validate a rapid phase-based (PB) R2 mapping method for whole-liver iron quantification by comparing it with conventional methods, and to understand fat bias through simulations. Approach: PB-R2 mapping using RF phase-modulated 3D GRE imaging was tested in patients with iron overload at 1.5T and 3.0T MRI. Results: PB-R2 mapping showed good agreement with reference methods over a wide range of iron concentrations and excellent repeatability. Impact: PB-R2 mapping enables rapid, accurate whole-liver iron quantification within a single breath-hold, enhancing clinical efficiency and patient comfort. It may improve iron overload assessment and inspire further research to address fat bias in R2 mapping.