laminar necrosis

Full Definition

Laminar necrosis represents selective death of neurons in specific cortical layers, most commonly layers 3, 5, and 6, following ischemic or hypoxic injury. This pattern of injury reflects the differential susceptibility of cortical layers to oxygen deprivation. On MRI, laminar necrosis typically appears as a thin band of hyperintensity along the cortical ribbon on FLAIR sequences, developing days to weeks after the initial insult. It may also demonstrate restricted diffusion acutely and can show cortical enhancement in the subacute phase.

Usage

Usage note: Also called pseudolaminar necrosis when due to non-ischemic causes.

In Context

• "Laminar necrosis was evident as cortical hyperintensity on FLAIR images three weeks post-cardiac arrest." — hypoxic-ischemic injury report
• "The pattern of laminar necrosis suggested watershed territory involvement." — stroke follow-up imaging