What is FLAIR signal hyperintensity

[Ked5001]

After experiencing some minor numbness on my left side, I had 2 MRI on my head and brain.  The report I received says, in part:

"Several sulci of T2 and FLAIR hyperintensity within the white matter of both cerebral hemispheres"  "Primary diferential considerations include sequela of chronic small-vessel ischemic disease.  No evidence of acute infarction."

My Intenet searches have turned up a plethora of discussions of FLAIR hyperintensity in connection with conditions that range from Lyme disease to MS, but I haven't found a specific explanation of T2, FLAIR, or hyperintensity as they apply in this context.

Can you give me a fairly complete explanation of the terms and the significance of the phrase "sulci of T2 and FLAIR hyperintensity within the white matter" as well as any other insight into what this finding implies?

[Kimbo96]

I have Chronic Lyme disease.

[kwarendorf]

Hi dee -  Welcome to the group.

We are not doctors. We are just folks living with MS, or are in the process of determining if they have MS.

In my non doctor opinion, any abnormal finding is worthy of further investigation, if not concern. Hyperintensities are abnormal findings, but habe many causes and can be harmless. Your best bet is to discuss these findings with the doctor that ordered the MRI.

Kyle

[dee12345678]

After 3-4 mounts of daily headache we did a MRI of my 12 years old . They found these single T2 FLAIR focal hyperintensities frontal and in corpus calosum. Please can you comment of these, are they showing something of concern.

[amanda214106]

Are T2 FLAIR white matter hyperintensities considered a sign of MS?  Are they lesions even before they turn to hypointensities?  My daughter has these.  Plus CSF O-bands.  She's 8.

[birdmom9925]

Can someone please explain this to me?  All my doctor's office would tell me was that my results are "fairly normal"  I have been dealing with autoimmune issues, so naturally MS in on my mind.  I am looking for a doctor (neuro and/or rheum) to possibly get a second opinion.

Findings:  minimal punctate FLAIR hyperintensity in the corona, radiate, left pareital and right frontal subcortical regions, are nonspecific and likely of no clinical consequence.  Indication of papilledema

[kwarendorf]

Hi Busteretta -  Welcome to the group.

T2/FLAIR is a type of MRI, rather than a specific finding. if you're reading a radiology report, does it have an "Impressions" section?

As to MS and car accidents, MS is not caused by any kind of trauma.

Kyle