perfusion defect
An area of reduced blood flow to myocardial tissue detected on nuclear or CT perfusion imaging.
Full Definition
A perfusion defect refers to an area of the myocardium that demonstrates reduced blood flow compared to normal tissue on perfusion imaging studies. These defects can be classified as reversible (indicating ischemia that improves with rest) or fixed (suggesting previous myocardial infarction or scar tissue). Perfusion defects are identified on nuclear medicine studies such as SPECT or PET imaging, as well as CT or MRI perfusion studies. The size, location, and reversibility of perfusion defects provide important diagnostic and prognostic information for patients with coronary artery disease. Quantitative analysis may include defect size as a percentage of total myocardium.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether defects are reversible or fixed; quantify size when possible.
In Context
- "A moderate-sized reversible perfusion defect was noted in the anterior wall territory." — Nuclear cardiology report
- "No significant perfusion defects were identified on the stress images." — SPECT imaging report