late gadolinium enhancement
MRI technique using contrast agent to identify myocardial scar tissue and fibrosis.
Full Definition
Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) is a cardiac MRI technique that uses gadolinium-based contrast agents to visualize areas of myocardial fibrosis, scar tissue, or acute injury. The technique relies on the delayed washout of contrast from abnormal tissue compared to normal myocardium. LGE imaging is performed 10-20 minutes after contrast administration and provides excellent tissue characterization for conditions such as myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy, and infiltrative diseases. The pattern and distribution of enhancement often help determine the underlying pathophysiology and guide treatment decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize LGE when abbreviated; lowercase when spelled out.
In Context
- "Late gadolinium enhancement revealed transmural scarring consistent with prior myocardial infarction." — Cardiac MRI report
- "The absence of LGE in the hypokinetic segments suggested viable myocardium." — Viability study report