FLAIR
Also written as: FLAIR — Fluid-Attenuated Inversion Recovery
Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, an MRI sequence that suppresses cerebrospinal fluid signal to enhance visualization of brain lesions.
Full Definition
Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) is a specialized MRI pulse sequence that nulls the signal from cerebrospinal fluid, making pathological changes in brain tissue more conspicuous. This technique is particularly valuable for detecting periventricular white matter lesions, cortical pathology, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. FLAIR images appear dark where CSF is present and bright where there is increased water content in tissue, making it essential for accurate neuroradiological diagnosis.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize when used as acronym; use lowercase when writing out full form in sentence context.
In Context
- "The FLAIR sequence revealed multiple hyperintense lesions in the periventricular white matter." — Radiology report
- "Sagittal FLAIR images demonstrated increased signal intensity along the cortical sulci." — MRI interpretation