Color-map recommendation for MR relaxometry maps

Purpose: To harmonize the use of color for MR relaxometry maps and therefore recommend the use of specific color-maps for representing T1 and T2 maps. Methods: Perceptually linearized color-maps were chosen to have similar color settings as those proposed by Griswold et al. in 2018. A Delphi process, polling the opinion of a panel of 81 experts, was used to generate consensus on the suitability of these maps. Results: Consensus was reached on the suitability of the logarithm-processed Lipari color-map for T1 and the logarithm-processed Navia color-map for T2. There was consensus on color bars being mandatory and on the use of a specific value indicating invalidity. There was no consensus on whether the ranges should be fixed per anatomy. Conclusion: The authors recommend the use of the logarithm-processed Lipari color map for displaying quantitative T1 maps and R1 maps; likewise, the authors recommend the logarithm-processed Navia color-map for displaying T2, T2*, R2 and R2* maps.
Comment: 22 pages; embedded are 5 figures and 5 tables; contact the first author for supplementary material. Submitted to Magnetic Resonance in Medicine