Magnetic resonance spectroscopy applied to clinical oncology

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy provides a means of non-invasively measuring the behaviour of a range of compounds of biochemical significance. With the development of a range of spatial localization and mapping techniques, the method has a range of promising applications in oncology. ³¹P and ¹H spectroscopy are of value in observing the metabolism of both tumours and normal tissues. ¹⁹F spectroscopy has been used to monitor the metabolism of fluorine containing anticancer drugs, and ¹³C may find application in this field, particularly in pre-clinical studies. In vivo clinical measurements are complemented by pre-clinical studies, high resolution measurements of extracts from tissue samples and also the measurement of biofluids, which can provide additional metabolic and pharmacokinetic information. The application of these techniques to oncology is reviewed, with particular emphasis on their clinical role.