What is the full form of DWI in MRI?

The full form of DWI in MRI is Diffusion Weighted Imaging.

Understanding Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI)

DWI is a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique that generates image contrast based on the differences in the Brownian motion of water molecules. In simpler terms, it allows doctors to evaluate the molecular function and the micro-architecture of the human body by observing how water molecules move around.

• Brownian Motion: This refers to the random movement of particles suspended in a fluid (liquid or gas). In the context of DWI, we're observing the movement of water molecules within tissues.

• Molecular Function and Micro-Architecture: DWI provides valuable information about the structure and activity at a microscopic level, which is often crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various conditions.

How DWI Works

DWI measures the ease with which water molecules diffuse through tissues. This diffusion is affected by factors such as:

• Cellularity: Densely packed cells restrict water movement.
• Tissue Integrity: Damage or abnormalities can alter water diffusion patterns.

By detecting these changes in diffusion, DWI can help identify:

• Stroke: DWI is highly sensitive to detecting early changes in the brain after a stroke, often within minutes of symptom onset.
• Tumors: Tumors often have restricted water diffusion due to high cellularity.
• Infections: Infections can cause inflammation and changes in water diffusion.

Summary Table