Correlation between clot RBC content and susceptibility measurements on QSM: an investigation using ex vivo clot analogs

Motivation: No mathematical model has yet been established to predict the clot RBC content using MRI. Because RBC are paramagnetic, it may be possible to predict the RBC content using QSM. Goal(s): Do susceptibility values on QSM reflect clot RBC content? Approach: Porcine clot analogs with various RBC contents were made and examined ex vivo using 3T MRI. Each susceptibility value was measured on the generated QSM. Results: The susceptibility value of clots measured on QSM had a strong positive linear correlation with clot RBC content. Impact: A strong positive linear correlation was observed between the susceptibility values of clots measured on QSM and RBC content. By measuring the susceptibility value of clots on QSM, it is possible to estimate the RBC content in the clots.