Which term refers to the hazy increase in fat density around an organ, indicating an inflammatory process?

The term that refers to the hazy increase in fat density around an organ, indicating an inflammatory process, is known as stranding. Stranding appears as a hazy or streaky area of increased attenuation around an organ, often associated with conditions such as infections, pancreatitis, or other inflammatory diseases.

This is significant in imaging, as it helps radiologists and physicians understand the underlying pathology. The presence of stranding indicates that there may be inflammatory changes occurring in the adjacent fat, which can provide valuable information during diagnosis and treatment planning.

In the context of imaging techniques, recognizing such patterns is critical because they can inform the clinician about the severity and extent of the disease process. Understanding stranding can significantly impact the clinical management of patients presenting with abdominal pain or other related symptoms.