diffusion weighted imaging


diffusion weighted imaging

MRIs with intensity proportional to the diffusion constant of water; because of the impaired movement of water in myelin, the signal is strongest parallel to nerve tracts; used primarily to evaluate edema in acute stroke, but also shows demyelinating diseases, and has been used in mapping muscle fiber direction in the heart. Synonym(s): diffusion imaging

diffusion weighted imaging

In magnetic resonance imaging, the use of changes in the movement of water through tissues as a contrast medium. Diffusion weighted imaging has been used in the diagnosis of strokes and other neurological diseases as well as abdominal and musculoskeletal injuries and diseases. See also: imaging