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Hyperintense disks on T1-weighted MR images: correlation with calcification
B A Bangert1, M T Modic, J S Ross
1Department of Radiology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44106, USA.
Radiology
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Intervertebral disk calcification is linked to hyperintensity on T1-weighted MRI scans. This finding suggests degenerative disk disease when other causes are absent.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Spinal Imaging
- Degenerative Diseases
Background:
- Intervertebral disk degeneration is a common condition.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for diagnosing spinal pathologies.
- T1-weighted imaging is a standard MRI sequence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between intervertebral disk calcification and T1-weighted MRI signal intensity.
- To determine if T1-weighted hyperintensity in intervertebral disks indicates calcification.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective and prospective analysis of T1-weighted MRI scans from 54 patients.
- Correlative imaging included computed tomography (CT) and plain radiographs.
- Fat-suppression MRI and histological analysis were performed in select cases.
Main Results:
- Absence of calcification correlated with isointense disks (P < .001).
- Mild to moderate calcification was associated with T1-weighted hyperintense disks (P < .001, P = .004).
- Marked calcification was linked to hypointense disks (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- T1-weighted hyperintensity in intervertebral disks is associated with calcification.
- Hyperintense disks on T1-weighted MRI suggest degenerative disk disease in the absence of other clinical findings.