Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
vasogenic edema
Brain swelling caused by increased capillary permeability allowing fluid to accumulate in white matter.
Full Definition
Vasogenic edema results from breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, leading to increased capillary permeability and accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the extracellular space, particularly in white matter. This type of edema is commonly seen around brain tumors, abscesses, and areas of inflammation. On MRI, vasogenic edema appears as hyperintense signal on T2-weighted images and FLAIR sequences, typically with a finger-like pattern extending along white matter tracts.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from cytotoxic edema, which affects intracellular compartments.
In Context
- "Extensive vasogenic edema surrounding the enhancing mass was noted on the post-contrast images." — brain tumor report
- "The vasogenic edema pattern suggested a metastatic rather than primary lesion." — differential diagnosis
Also known as
extracellular edema
Contrasted with
cytotoxic edema
Don't confuse with
cytotoxic edema
interstitial edema