Functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of tumors of the head and neck usually encompasses diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and intravenous (IV) contrast T1 dynamic perfusion imaging (DCE-MRI or PWI). Both techniques can characterize different tissues by probing into their microstructure, providing a novel approach in oncological imaging. In this pictorial review, we will cover the important technical aspects of DWI and PWI, the pathophysiological background and the current applications and potential of these functional MRI techniques in the imaging of head and neck cancer.
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