Utility of the ADC Map in Identification of Diffusion Restriction on a Background of Basal Ganglia Iron Deposition - T2 Gray Out Effect

Objective: Review T2 signal effects on DWI, including a previously undescribed concept of T2 shortening masking true diffusion restriction on trace DWI images, and the utility of evaluating the ADC/eADC map in these areas using case examples. Conclusion: Basal ganglia iron deposition can potentially mask true diffusion restriction when trace DWI images are viewed in isolation. Review of the ADC/eADC map is helpful for identifying diffusion restriction in these cases.