Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Kidney

In addition to exquisite anatomical detail, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a variety of avenues to study functional status of tissue. These functional parameters could either provide additional information, in terms of pathophysiology, or may improve the specificity of the diagnosis. This chapter reviews some current state-of-the-art functional MRI (fMRI) methods as applied to the kidney. Three parameters, renal perfusion, filtration or excretory function, and oxygenation are reviewed in depth. Illustrative examples are provided and advantages discussed.