What medical term refers to the filling of blood vessels with contrast media for imaging?

The medical term that refers to the filling of blood vessels with contrast media for imaging purposes is angiography. This imaging technique is used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs, particularly the heart, by injecting a contrast agent that makes the blood vessels appear more prominently on imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.

Angiography is crucial in diagnosing conditions related to the vascular system, such as blockages, aneurysms, or malformations. The contrast media enhances the visibility of structures that may not be seen clearly with standard imaging techniques. This allows healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about patient care based on clear visual representations of the patient’s vascular anatomy.

Other terms provided in the options have different meanings and uses in the medical field. For instance, an antigen refers to a substance that induces an immune response, while an antibody is a protein produced by the immune system to neutralize pathogens. An artifact pertains to any distortion or error that occurs in imaging due to various factors, such as patient movement or equipment malfunction.