contrast extravasation
Leakage of contrast material from blood vessels into brain tissue, often indicating blood-brain barrier breakdown in areas of tumor or treatment effect.
Full Definition
Contrast extravasation refers to the abnormal leakage of intravenous contrast agents from blood vessels into the surrounding brain parenchyma, typically indicating disruption of the blood-brain barrier. In neuro-oncology, contrast extravasation manifests as enhancement on CT or MRI studies and is a hallmark feature of many brain tumors, particularly high-grade gliomas and metastases. The pattern and degree of contrast extravasation provide important diagnostic and prognostic information, helping to distinguish between different tumor types and assess treatment response. However, contrast extravasation can also occur in non-neoplastic conditions such as infection, inflammation, or treatment-related changes, requiring careful clinical correlation for accurate interpretation.
Usage
Usage note: Technically more precise than 'enhancement' when describing the mechanism.
In Context
- "MRI demonstrated irregular contrast extravasation along the tumor margins, consistent with blood-brain barrier disruption." — Radiology report
- "The pattern of contrast extravasation suggested high-grade glioma rather than metastatic disease." — Imaging interpretation