Tracking the progress of inflammation with PET/MRI in a canine model of myocardial infarction

Background Following myocardial infarction, tissue undergoes pathophysiological changes involving inflammation and scar tissue formation. However, little is known about the pathophysiology and prognostic significance of any corresponding changes in remote myocardium. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential application of a combined constant infusion of 18 F-FDG and Gd-DTPA to quantitate inflammation and extracellular volume (ECV) from 3 to 40 days after myocardial infarction. Methods Eight canine subjects were imaged at multiple time points following induction of an MI with a 60-minute concurrent constant infusion of Gd-DTPA and 18 F-FDG using a hybrid PET/MRI scanner. Results There was a significant increase in ECV in remote myocardium on day 14 post-MI ( P = .034) and day 21 ( P = .021) compared to the baseline. ECV was significantly elevated in the infarcted myocardium compared to remote myocardium at all time points post-MI (days 3, 7, 14, 21, and 40) ( P < .001) while glucose uptake was also increased within the infarct on days 3, 7, 14, and 21 but not 40. Conclusions The significant increase in ECV in remote tissue may be due to an ongoing inflammatory process in the early weeks post-infarct.