. 2012 May;33(5):803–817. doi: 10.3174/ajnr.A2640

Table 3:

Standard protocol for brain tumor imaging based on expert panel discussion following the framework of the ACRIN 6686 component of the RTOG 0825 protocol⁷³

Standardized MR imaging protocol

3-Plane localizer/scout (in order of acquisition)

T1-weighted precontrast (spin-echo)

T2-weighted axial

FLAIR (optional to perform after contrast)

T1 map (quantitation) for DCE MR imaging—3D gradient-echo T1 or 2D TSE/FSE T1^a

DWI and/or DTI (can extract DWI data trace/ADC from DTI)^a

T2* DSC MR imaging (after presaturation DCE MR imaging sequence)^a

T1-weighted postcontrast (spin-echo)

Functional language, auditory, visual, motor testing, and MRS^a

Can do FLAIR before DSC MR imaging

SWI, gradient-echo, additional optional sequences^a

General parameter recommendations

Section thickness not greater than 5 mm

Delay is recommended, which can be built in by performing DWI and/or DTI before acquiring T1 sequences. Another option is to perform FLAIR (or even T2) before T1 sequences, which may give additional sensitivity for leptomeningeal disease⁷⁴

Target duration ≤30 minutes (maximum, 1.5–2.0 hr)

Note:—ACRIN indicates American College of Radiology Imaging Network; SWI, susceptibility-weighted imaging; RTOG = Radiation Therapy Oncology Group.

Part of the ACRIN 6686 protocol but can be used as an adjunct in the clinical brain tumor protocol.