Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Practice Test

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On T1 weighted images of the spine, how does the CSF appear relative to the spinal cord?

Hyperintense
Hypointense
Isointense
Bright

The correct answer is: Hypointense

On T1 weighted images, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) appears hypointense, meaning it has a lower signal intensity compared to the spinal cord. This is due to the characteristics of T1 relaxation times, where fat and protein-rich tissues will have a higher signal, thus making structures like the spinal cord appear hyperintense. The CSF, being primarily water, does not contain the same concentration of fats or proteins, leading to its lower signal on T1 images. Understanding this relationship is key in MRI interpretation, especially for differentiating between various tissue types and pathologies in the spine. The apparent brightness or darkness of tissues on these images is critical to diagnosing conditions such as lesions or abnormalities surrounding the spinal cord.