Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

perfusion-weighted imaging

MRI technique measuring cerebral blood flow and volume to assess tissue viability in stroke and tumor evaluation.

Full Definition

Perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) is an MRI technique that evaluates cerebral hemodynamics by tracking contrast material or using arterial spin labeling. In acute stroke, PWI identifies the ischemic penumbra—tissue that is hypoperfused but potentially salvageable with timely intervention. The mismatch between DWI (irreversibly damaged tissue) and PWI (hypoperfused tissue) guides treatment decisions. PWI is also valuable in tumor imaging for assessing vascularity, treatment response, and distinguishing tumor recurrence from radiation necrosis.

Usage

Usage note: Specify the perfusion technique used (DSC-PWI, ASL, etc.) when clinically relevant.

In Context

"PWI demonstrated a large area of hypoperfusion extending beyond the DWI abnormality." — Stroke protocol report
"Perfusion-weighted imaging showed increased relative cerebral blood volume in the enhancing portion of the mass." — Brain tumor evaluation

Also known as

PWI perfusion imaging cerebral perfusion imaging

Don't confuse with

DWI (diffusion-weighted imaging) DSC (dynamic susceptibility contrast) ASL (arterial spin labeling)

perforating artery ← Back to glossary perilesional edema