washout pattern
A contrast enhancement pattern showing rapid uptake followed by quick contrast elimination, often indicating malignancy in dynamic imaging.
Full Definition
A washout pattern refers to a specific enhancement characteristic observed on dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging where a lesion shows rapid initial contrast uptake during arterial or early phases, followed by relatively quick contrast elimination in delayed phases. This pattern is particularly significant in hepatic imaging where it may indicate hepatocellular carcinoma, and in breast MRI where it often suggests malignancy. The pattern is quantified by measuring enhancement curves and is distinguished from persistent or plateau enhancement patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'washout pattern' for the imaging appearance; 'washout kinetics' for temporal measurements
In Context
- "The hepatic lesion demonstrated classic washout pattern consistent with hepatocellular carcinoma." — Radiology report
- "Type III enhancement curves showing washout pattern were observed in 78% of malignant breast lesions." — Research publication