Gadolinium (MRI contrast agent) on T2 is which signal intensity?

Gadolinium (MRI contrast agent) on T2 is which signal intensity?

• A. Dark
• B. Isointense
• C. Very bright
• D. Bright

Answer: (D)

Gadolinium-based contrast agents work by shortening T1 relaxation, so their main signal change is bright enhancement on T1-weighted images. On T2-weighted images, their effect is minimal and can even cause slight signal loss (darkening) in sequences sensitive to T2* or high concentrations, rather than producing bright signal. So, in standard T2 imaging, gadolinium is not expected to appear bright; if anything, it may appear darker or show little change. The description that fits typical T2 behavior is dark (hypointense) rather than bright.

Gadolinium-based contrast agents work by shortening T1 relaxation, so their main signal change is bright enhancement on T1-weighted images. On T2-weighted images, their effect is minimal and can even cause slight signal loss (darkening) in sequences sensitive to T2* or high concentrations, rather than producing bright signal. So, in standard T2 imaging, gadolinium is not expected to appear bright; if anything, it may appear darker or show little change. The description that fits typical T2 behavior is dark (hypointense) rather than bright.