To review the basic physical principles of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS).

To discuss various hardware requirements needed to perform MRS in the clinical setting.

To familiarize the reader with a typical MRS exam including patient preparation, coil considerations, localization techniques, and data acquisition, reconstruction, and analysis.

In Vivo Proton MR Spectroscopy: Basic Principles and Clinical Application

To discuss the physical principles of spectroscopy.

To review the most common detectable in vivo -H metabolites and their biochemical role in humans.

To review the most common techniques used when performing an in vivo MRS study of the brain, including pulse sequences, exam, and parameter considerations.

To emphasize the importance of correct selection of voxel of interest and localized shimming to ensure a good MRS study.

To discuss the advantages of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging (MRSI) or Chemical Shift Imaging (CSI).

To discuss the clinical applications of MRS in the brain and other areas of the body.