Unraveling the Hidden Link: Electrical Conductivity-Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Correlation Patterns in Thoracic Lesions

Motivation: There have been discrepancies about correlation between electrical conductivity (σ) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of tissues. A better understanding of the σ-ADC relationship and the impact of tissue heterogeneity on this correlation could provide valuable insights into the underlying microstructural differences. Goal(s): To explore the factors underlying the relationship between σ and ADC, this study aimed to investigate this σ-ADC relationship across thoracic lesion types. Approach: σ-ADC relationships were assessed across lesion categories: entire cohort, solid lesions, malignancies, histological subtypes, and heterogeneity groups. Results: A positive σ-ADC correlation exists in thoracic lesions, influenced by solidity, malignancy, histological subtype and heterogeneity. Impact: This study informs the positive relationship between σ and ADC in thoracic lesions, highlights the factors that influence this relationship, and the importance of integrating σ and ADC in evaluating lesion microarchitecture.