contrast washout
Clearance pattern of contrast agents from myocardial tissue, used to assess perfusion and viability.
Full Definition
Contrast washout refers to the temporal clearance pattern of contrast agents from myocardial tissue following initial uptake, providing information about tissue perfusion, viability, and structural integrity. In cardiac MRI, delayed contrast washout occurs in areas of fibrosis or scar tissue where gadolinium is trapped in expanded extracellular space, forming the basis of late gadolinium enhancement imaging. In contrast echocardiography, washout kinetics help differentiate viable from non-viable myocardium. Abnormal washout patterns can indicate microvascular obstruction, no-reflow phenomenon, or extensive myocardial damage. The rate and pattern of washout provide quantitative measures of tissue characteristics beyond simple visual enhancement.
Usage
Usage note: Often qualified as 'delayed' or 'rapid' washout; important timing parameter in viability assessment.
In Context
- "Delayed contrast washout in the inferior wall indicates myocardial fibrosis and poor viability." — Cardiac MRI report
- "Abnormal contrast washout kinetics suggest microvascular dysfunction despite epicardial recanalization." — Advanced perfusion study