Figure 19

Time-dependent clearance of the Gd-probe agent away from the bladder provides a strong indication of lymphatic vessel function (LVF). Figure 18 represents the comparison between tumor-bearing bladders (Figure A) and controls (Figures B and C). Data represents T1 values in [ms] with Bruker's MSMEVTR spin-echo method, including 3 slice packages chosen to include both normal and tumor regions in bladder. T1 values from these regions were normalized as percent of the reference site (muscle). In control bladders, two different normal regions were compared. This figure represents the time-dependent clearance of the contrast agent away from the bladder and provides a strong indication of LVF. Asterisks indicate a statistical significant difference (p < 0.05) between normal and tumor areas.