MRI BRAIN WITH CONTRAST

MRI Brain with Contrast Overview

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain with contrast is a non-invasive imaging test that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves, along with a contrast agent, to create detailed photographs of the brain and its structures. This test captures a wide variety of images to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as tumours, strokes, and inflammatory diseases. 

What is an MRI Brain with Contrast? 

An MRI Brain with Contrast involves a strong magnetic field and radio waves to correctly align hydrogen atoms in the body. When a contrast agent is injected into the bloodstream, it builds up in specific brain areas which makes it easier to take detailed pictures of the internal structures. The test is painless and contrast agent reactions are rare. 

Types of MRI Brain with Contrast 

The following are some subdivisions of the MRI Brain with Contrast:  

• Dynamic Contrast Enhancement (DCE-MRI): assesses brain blood flow and perfusion using a contrast agent. 
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): visualizes blood vessels in the brain using a contrast agent.  
• Functional MRI (fMRI): captures active processes and functions of the brain to diagnose neurological disorders.  

List of Parameters Assessed Within the MRI Brain with Contrast

During the exam, healthcare practitioners will include in their findings:  

• The structure and anatomy of the brain. 
• The degree of inflammatory response or Edema. 
• Blood circulation and perfusion.  
• The size, location, and other features of the tumour. 
• Stroke or other diseases involving the cerebral vasculature.  

Changes may be made for the patients’ characteristics such as age, preexisting conditions, or sensitivities to the contrast dye. 

Reasons for Performing an MRI of the Brain with Contrast Enhancement

This examination is usually recommended for: 

• Determining and tracking the course of a brain tumour. 
• Investigating for stroke or any disease of the blood vessels of the brain. 
• Assessing the inflammatory processes such as in multiple sclerosis. 
• Diagnosing the infections such as meningitis or encephalitis. 
• Follow-up of head trauma or any injury to the head. 

When and Who Needs to Take an MRI Brain with Contrast? 

An MRI Brain with Contrast may be needed if any of the following affects the patient: 

• Severe headaches or migraines 
• Confusion, disorientation, or changes in mental status. 
• Any formations of Weakness, numbness, or paralysis of any part of the body. 
• Changes in Vision or double vision. 
• Challenges in speech or swallowing. 
• Seizures or convulsions.  

This test is typically recommended for patients where the following are present: 

• Stroke or a history of transient ischemic attack (TIA). 
• Tumours or cancer in the brain. 
• Multiple sclerosis or other forms of inflammatory diseases. 
• Infectious diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis.  
• Physical trauma or injury to the head.  

Benefits of Taking the Test

Some benefits of the MRI Brain With Contrasts includes: 

• Detailed imagery of the various parts of the brain and the intricate features within it. 
• Possibility of wide range condition being identified alongside other. 
• Procedures that do not need to cut into the body and is without any discomfort. 
• Assists in making clinical decisions and assessing the extent and rate of change of the disease. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Brain with Contrast

Some common conditions when using MRI Brain with Contrast are as follows: 

• Brain tumours e.g. glioblastoma, meningioma. 
• Stroke or cerebral vasculature disease. 
• Multiple Sclerosis and other inflammatory illnesses. 
• Infections cold as meningitis and encephalitis. 
• Trauma or injury to the head. 

Preparing for MRI brain with contrast

Regarding this, the patients are expected to: 

• Be ordered to take out any metallic items such as glasses, jewellery, and clothing with metallic zips. 
• Not partake in meals or beverages at least four to six hours before the procedure. 
• Report any allergies, medical history, and the active medication with their doctor. 
• Arrive in advance of the test to fill out any required documentation and get ready for the test. 

Pre-requisites 

The requirements as stated for pre-test include:  

• 4-6 hour fasting prior to the test. 
• Avoidance of certain medications like blood thinners and sedatives. 
• Communicating any known allergies or medical conditions to the doctor.  

Best Time for MRI of Brain with Contrast 

The test can be booked at any time; however, it is best scheduled for the morning or early afternoon to mitigate waits. 

Eligibility 

This MRI brain scan with contrast is generally indicated for patients who: 

• Present symptoms of a brain tumour, stroke, or inflammatory disease processes. 
• Have a history of head and neck trauma or injury. 
• Pose a possibility of infectious processes such as meningitis or encephalitis. 

Procedure of Taking MRI Brain with Contrast 

The duration of the test is estimated at 30-60 minutes and involves the following steps: 

1. Preparation: taking off metallic items, changing into a hospital gown, and preparing the contrast agent. 
2. Injection of Contrast: intravenously in the arm. 
3. MRI scan: The patient maintains stillness in the MRI machine during the test. 
4. Post-test: The IV line is released and the patient is observed for any reactions. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

The examined patients need to 

• Notify the physician about allergies AND other existing medical conditions and medications. 
• For 4-6 hours before the test, no food or drink may be consumed. 
• All metal belongings should be discarded before the test.