Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hypointensity

noun
/haɪ.pɔɪnˈtɛn.sɪ.ti/
Definition
A term used in medical imaging, particularly in MRI, to describe areas that appear darker than surrounding tissues due to lower signal intensity.
Examples
  • The MRI scan showed hypointensity in the affected region, suggesting a possible tumor.
  • Areas of hypointensity may indicate areas of necrosis or significant fluid accumulation.
  • Radiologists often assess hypointense regions to evaluate the severity of injuries.
Meaning
Hypointensity indicates a region in imaging studies where the signal is weaker, which may suggest certain pathologies or characteristics of the tissue being examined.
Synonyms
  • dark area
  • low signal area
  • reduced intensity region