Hyperechoic is a term used in medical imaging, especially ultrasound, to describe a structure or area in the body that reflects more sound waves (echoes) than the surrounding tissues.
In simpler terms:
A hyperechoic area appears brighter or whiter on an ultrasound image because it bounces back more sound waves. This often means the tissue is denser or contains more solid material, like fat, calcifications, or fibrous tissue.
Examples:
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A hyperechoic liver lesion might suggest a benign tumor like a hemangioma.
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Hyperechoic kidney areas could indicate stones or scarring.
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Fat is typically hyperechoic compared to muscle.