IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

MRI grading system for meniscal signal intensity (diagrams)

Case contributed by Mohammad Salem Amer
Diagnosis not applicable

MRI grading system for abnormal high meniscal signal intensity reported by Lotysch et al.

Normal meniscus should appear as a uniform low-signal (dark) triangular structure in sagittal MRI images.

  • normal: No abnormal signal intensity
  • 1: small focal area of increased signal intensity, with no extension to the articular surface
  • 2a: linear abnormal signal intensity with no extension to the articular surface
  • 2b: abnormal signal intensity reaches the articular surface,  but on a single image
  • 2c: globular wedge-shaped abnormal signal intensity with no extension to the articular surface
  • 3: abnormal high signal intensity extends to at least one articular surface (superior or inferior). This type is referred as a definite meniscal tear.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.