Dense
Dense
Dense (/dɛns/), derived from the Latin word densus, meaning thick or compact, is a term often used in the medical field to describe the physical property of a substance or tissue.
Medical Usage
In medical terminology, the term dense is used to describe tissues or substances that appear darker or thicker on medical imaging scans, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. This is due to the fact that these dense tissues or substances absorb more radiation, causing them to appear darker on the scan.
For example, in mammography, a dense breast is one that has a high proportion of fibroglandular tissue compared to fatty tissue. Women with dense breasts have a higher risk of breast cancer, and their mammograms can be more difficult to interpret.
Related Terms
- Radiodensity: The degree to which a material absorbs or blocks radiation. The denser the tissue, the higher its radiodensity.
- Computed Tomography (CT): A type of imaging test that uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. Dense tissues or substances will appear darker on a CT scan.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A type of imaging test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. Dense tissues or substances will appear darker on an MRI.
- Fibroglandular Tissue: The type of breast tissue that appears dense on a mammogram. It includes the milk ducts, lobules, and supportive tissue.
- Breast Cancer: A type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. It is more common in women, but can also occur in men.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dense
- Wikipedia's article - Dense
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