Ultrasmall superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in the assessment of cellular inflammation after myocardial infarction

Background Excessive inflammation after myocardial infarction (MI) can be detrimental to the recovery of cardiac function. Ultrasmall superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide (USPIO)-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to detect myocardial cellular inflammation. USPIO are engulfed by resident macrophages through phagocytosis and pinocytosis resulting in concentration within inflamed tissues. We aimed to determine the time course and duration of USPIO-enhancement following acute MI (Figure 1).