Synopsis

This educational presentation introduces the basic physical principles of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) / magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) and Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) imaging. The influence of the nucleus and chemical shift on the resonance frequency is discussed and J-coupling, Nuclear Overhauser Effect and Chemical Exchange are introduced. Confounding effects that need to be calibrated out to yield quantitative results are mentioned. Both methods are compared with each other with respect to their sensitivity and specificity. In addition, the metabolic information that can be extracted from MRS/MRSI and CEST is discussed and clinical and research applications are introduced.