central vein sign
Also written as: CVS
A neuroimaging finding where MS lesions show a central vein on susceptibility-weighted imaging.
Full Definition
The central vein sign is an MRI finding observed on susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) or T2*-weighted sequences, where multiple sclerosis lesions demonstrate a small vein running through their center. This finding reflects the perivenular distribution of MS lesions and helps distinguish MS from other white matter diseases such as small vessel disease or NMOSD. The presence of central veins in a high proportion of lesions (typically >40%) supports an MS diagnosis. This imaging biomarker is increasingly used in clinical practice and is being incorporated into diagnostic criteria revisions.
Usage
Usage note: Requires specific MRI sequences; specify imaging technique when reporting findings.
In Context
- "The central vein sign was present in 85% of the patient's white matter lesions." — MRI report
- "Susceptibility-weighted imaging demonstrated the central vein sign supporting MS diagnosis." — Radiology consultation