In-vivo detection of rectal cancer at low field using field cycling imaging

Motivation: Fast Field-Cycling (FFC) provides insights into molecular dynamics and non-invasive tumour biomarkers using low magnetic fields. Our pilot study suggests that FFC technique may improve colorectal cancer detection by studying the 1H NMRD profiles. Goal(s): This study aims to assess FCI feasibility for detecting rectal cancer and predicting response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Approach: Rectal cancer patients were scanned by FCI scanner. We used a saturation recovery spin echo sequence with four evolution fields (200, 20, 2, and 0.2 mT). Results: The results showed higher R1 values (1/T1) and steeper slopes in rectal tumour at lower fields. NMRD profiles indicated reduced R1 in responders. Impact: This FFC-NMRD technique could complement existing imaging modalities by addressing limitations in detecting post-therapy changes in rectal cancer, enabling non-invasive diagnostics. Also, it holds potential to improve personalized treatment, guiding more effective therapies and enhancing patient outcomes.