J Korean Neurol Assoc.  2009 May;27(2):158-162.

CT and MR Imaging Analysis of Calcification Suspensions of Different Types and Concentrations

• Choi YC
• Shin HJ
• Choi JY

Abstract

BACKGROUND: High-density calcifications on CT images can appear as high signals on T1-weighted MR images, but with differing extents and degrees. This study investigated CT and MR images of calcifications of various types and concentrations.
METHODS
We analyzed CT and MR images of two cases of bilateral basal ganglia calcifications and experimental suspensions of calcifications of different types and concentrations.
RESULTS
The density of CT calcifications increased in proportion to their concentration regardless of their type. However, the MR signals differed with the types and concentrations of calcification. A high signal was one of the most noticeable signs on T1-weighted MR images for calcium phosphate, and it increased for concentrations up to 0.2 g/mL before leveling off. The signal for all types of calcification decreased on T2-weighted and especially fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images.
CONCLUSIONS
High signals are characteristic of calcification on T1-weighted MR images, and are often stronger than those on CT images. A low signal appears consistently on FLAIR MR images regardless of the calcification type. These findings might be helpful in evaluating calcifications apparent in MR images.

Keyword

Brain; Calcification; Computed tomography; Magnetic resonance

MeSH Terms

Basal Ganglia
Brain
Calcium
Calcium Phosphates
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Suspensions
Calcium
Calcium Phosphates
Suspensions