What is T2 shine through in DWI imaging?

T2 shine through in diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) refers specifically to high signal intensity that is attributed to T2 effects. In DWI, the appearance of high signal intensity is influenced by both diffusion properties of water molecules in tissue and the T2 relaxation characteristics of those tissues.

In certain circumstances, particularly when tissues have prolonged T2 values, regions may appear bright on DWI due to T2 shine through rather than true restricted diffusion. This means that the high signal observed may not necessarily indicate a pathology such as stroke or tumor but could be the result of the T2 relaxation properties of the tissue. Essentially, this phenomenon complicates the interpretation of DWI images, making it essential for radiologists and technologists to understand it clearly in order to differentiate between actual restricted diffusion and high T2 signal.

Recognizing this distinction is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management, as false interpretations could lead to inappropriate clinical decisions. Understanding T2 shine through is a fundamental aspect of reading and interpreting DWI accurately in the context of MRI imaging.