hyperechoic

Hyperechoic is a term used in ultrasound imaging to describe a tissue or structure that reflects more ultrasound waves than the surrounding tissues, resulting in a brighter appearance on the sonographic image. It is a relative descriptor, used in contrast to hypoechoic (darker), isoechoic (same brightness), and anechoic (almost completely dark) regions.

The degree of echogenicity depends on tissue properties and on ultrasound machine settings such as gain and frequency. Hyperechoic findings can be normal or indicate benign or concerning processes. They are often produced by tissues or materials with high acoustic impedance differences compared with their surroundings, such as calcifications, bone, air, or metallic foreign bodies. Fat and dense fibrous tissue can also appear relatively bright in certain contexts. It is important to interpret hyperechogenicity in relation to adjacent structures and the clinical scenario.

Common examples of hyperechoic objects or areas include calcified stones (such as gallstones or renal calculi), the cortex of bone, postoperative clips, and some calcium deposits within tissues or lesions. Fatty liver can appear hyperechoic compared with normal liver parenchyma, reflecting diffuse increased echogenicity.

Limitations include that echogenicity is subjective and influenced by probe frequency, angle, depth, and equipment settings. Consequently, hyperechoic findings should be correlated with other imaging features and clinical information to determine their significance.