CEST metrics and T1 relaxation time were evaluated in the deep arm muscle of participants with BCRL (n=12) in the affected (aff.) and contralateral (contra.) axilla, compared to healthy age- and BMI-matched female controls (n=34 including left and right arms); participants were evaluated pre- and post-MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) therapy. a)
T1 relaxation time is significantly different in the deep axilla between controls and participants with BCRL on the affected, but not contralateral, side. Following MLD therapy to the affected arm, b) PTR’APT and c) PTR’NOE were significantly increased in the affected arm compared to baseline imaging. d) AREX’ is less sensitive than PTR metrics to BCRL status or therapeutic modifications, owing to increased variability and limited dynamic range. *Two-sided p<0.05 required for significance. Error bars represent one standard deviation from the group mean.