COLON SCREENING BY USING MAGNETIC PARTICLE IMAGING

摘要

The present invention relates to a method for colon screening by using Magnetic Particle Imaging comprising the steps of: (a) generating an imaging magnetic field with a spatial distribution of the magnetic field strength such that the area of examination in the colon consists of a first sub-area of the colon with lower magnetic field strength, where the magnetization of a magnetic particle which was pre-delivered to the colon is not saturated, and a second sub-area of the colon with a higher magnetic field strength, where the magnetization of said magnetic particle is saturated;(b) changing the spatial location of both sub-areas in the area of examination so that the magnetization of said particles changes locally; (c) acquiring signals that depend on the magnetization in the area of examination influenced by this change; and (d) evaluating said signals to obtain information about the spatial distribution of the signals in the area of examination. The area of examination in the colon preferably comprises a portion or segment of the colon and steps (a) to (c) may be carried out during an entire peristaltic cycle in said colon portion or segment. The present invention further relates to a corresponding method for collecting data, the use of a magnetic particle for colon screening via Magnetic Particle Imaging, a food stuff or liquid for in vivo diagnostic use comprising a magnetic particle, and a method for preparing a patient for colon screening by using Magnetic Particle Imaging.