A volume-localized, two-dimensional NMR method for the determination of lactate using zero-quantum coherence created in a stimulated echo pulse sequence.

A volume-localized, two-dimensional NMR method which unambiguously measures lactate protons in the presence of interfering lipid resonances is presented. This technique employs the stimulated echo method for spatial selection and was used to observe lactic acid levels in a subcutaneously implanted RIF-1 tumor at a concentration of 9.6 mM.