Multiparametric MR (mpMR) imaging is rapidly evolving into the mainstay in prostate
cancer (PCa) imaging. Generally, the examination consists of T2-weighted sequences,
diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) evaluation, and
less often proton MR spectroscopy imaging (MRSI). Those functional techniques are
related to biological properties of the tumor, so that DWI correlates to cellularity
and Gleason scores, DCE correlates to angiogenesis, and MRSI correlates to cell
membrane turnover. The combined use of those techniques enhances the diagnostic
confidence and allows for better characterization of PCa. The present article reviews
and illustrates the technical aspects and clinical applications of each component of
mpMR imaging, in a practical approach from the urological standpoint.