T2 mapping
A cardiac MRI technique that quantifies myocardial water content to detect tissue edema and inflammation.
Full Definition
T2 mapping is an advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging technique that provides quantitative assessment of myocardial tissue characteristics by measuring T2 relaxation times. Elevated T2 values typically indicate increased tissue water content, which occurs in conditions such as myocardial edema, inflammation, or infiltrative diseases. This technique is particularly valuable in diagnosing acute myocarditis, detecting area at risk in acute myocardial infarction, and monitoring treatment response in inflammatory cardiomyopathies. T2 mapping offers objective, reproducible measurements that complement traditional qualitative MRI sequences and can detect subtle tissue changes that may not be apparent on conventional imaging.
Usage
Usage note: T2 should be written with subscript 2 when possible; mapping is lowercase.
In Context
- "T2 mapping revealed elevated values in the inferolateral segments, consistent with acute myocarditis." — Cardiac MRI report
- "The normal T2 mapping results helped exclude inflammatory cardiomyopathy in this patient." — Cardiology consultation note