Intermediate
Technical
IVT
T2*
Pronunciation: T-two-star
T2-star, an MRI relaxation parameter that includes effects of magnetic field inhomogeneities and susceptibility.
Full Definition
T2* (T2-star) is an effective transverse relaxation time constant that incorporates both intrinsic T2 relaxation and additional dephasing from magnetic field inhomogeneities and susceptibility effects. T2*-weighted imaging is particularly sensitive to blood oxygenation changes, forming the basis of BOLD functional MRI. This contrast mechanism is also valuable for detecting hemorrhage, iron deposits, and other sources of magnetic susceptibility variation in clinical neuroimaging.
Usage
Usage note: Always include asterisk (*) symbol; distinguish from T2 relaxation time
In Context
- "T2*-weighted gradient echo sequences demonstrated blooming artifacts consistent with microhemorrhages." — Traumatic brain injury assessment
- "The T2* decay time in gray matter was significantly shorter than in white matter due to higher iron content." — Quantitative MRI study
Also known as
T2-star
T2 star
Don't confuse with
T2
T1
T2'