Gadoxetic acid

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Gadoxetic Acid

Gadoxetic Acid (pronunciation: ga-dox-et-ic acid) is a contrast agent used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect and characterize lesions in the liver. It is marketed under the brand name Primovist in Europe and Eovist in the United States.

Etymology

The term "Gadoxetic Acid" is derived from the chemical composition of the compound. "Ga" stands for Gadolinium, a rare earth metal used in MRI contrast agents. "Dox" is derived from the Greek word "doxa", meaning belief or opinion, which refers to the agent's ability to provide a clear image or "opinion" of the liver. "Etic" is a common suffix in chemistry, indicating a type of acid.

Usage

Gadoxetic Acid is administered intravenously to patients undergoing an MRI scan of the liver. It enhances the contrast between normal and abnormal liver tissue, making it easier for radiologists to detect and characterize lesions.

Related Terms

  • Contrast Agent: A substance used to enhance the contrast of structures or fluids within the body in medical imaging.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A type of imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within the body.
  • Gadolinium: A chemical element with the symbol Gd and atomic number 64. Gadolinium is used in MRI contrast agents due to its paramagnetic properties.
  • Lesion: Any abnormal damage or change in the tissue of an organism, usually caused by disease or trauma.
  • Liver: A large, meaty organ that sits on the right side of the belly. The liver's main job is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body.

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