Intermediate
Technical
IVT
blooming artifact
Image distortion where calcified plaques appear larger than actual size on gradient-echo sequences.
Full Definition
A magnetic resonance imaging artifact that occurs when calcified structures or metallic objects appear larger and more prominent than their actual size, particularly on gradient-echo sequences. In vascular imaging, this artifact can cause overestimation of calcified plaque burden and degree of luminal narrowing. The artifact results from magnetic field inhomogeneities created by substances with different magnetic susceptibilities. Understanding this artifact is crucial for accurate interpretation of MR angiography studies.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the type of artifact when describing image quality issues in vascular reports.
In Context
- "The radiologist noted blooming artifact from the calcified plaque, which could overestimate the degree of stenosis." — MRA interpretation report
- "T2*-weighted sequences are particularly susceptible to blooming artifact in the presence of calcification." — Imaging protocol guidelines
Also known as
susceptibility artifact
magnetic susceptibility artifact
Don't confuse with
motion artifact
flow artifact