Achal Sarna, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Mark Alan Rosen, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Sridhar Rao Charagundla, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Evan Spencer Siegelman MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

1. Understand the etiology of T2* susceptibility artifact. 2. Identify susceptibility artifact on dual-echo SPGR images. 3. Learn how recognition of susceptibility artifact may be useful in the evaluation of abdominal MR images.

Dual-echo chemical shift imaging (DE-CSI) is a commonly employed imaging technique in abdominal MRI. The dual-echo sequence is specifically used for characterizing lipid-containing tissues though signal-loss on “opposed-phase” images. Paradoxical loss of signal on “in-phase” images can be seen in cases of excessive T2* decay. This phenomenon may be encountered in certain types of pathology (e.g. iron deposition in organs or masses), in the presence of air, or iatrogenically from metallic foreign bodies. Recognition of the origins of smaller and milder foci of increased T2* decay can improve diagnostic performance through improved tissue characterization, and may help the MR reader avoid diagnostic pitfalls. This education exhibit will review the etiology of magnetic susceptibility, enumerate pathologic entities and foreign bodies that may lead to increased T2* decay on DE-CSI, and illustrate diagnostic usefulness of this effect in abdominal MRI.

Sarna, A, Rosen, M, Charagundla, S, Siegelman, E, Susceptibility (“Blooming”) Artifact in Dual-Echo Spoiled Gradient Echo Imaging: Recognition and Diagnostic Usefulness in Abdominal MRI.  Radiological Society of North America 2005 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 27 - December 2, 2005 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2005/4415561.html