MRI BRAIN WITH SPECTROSCOPY

Magnetic Resonance (MR) Brain with Spectroscopy Overview

MR Brain with Spectroscopy is a diagnostic test which includes imaging through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and analysis through Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) to assess the brain's structure and function. The test aids in the diagnosis of different brain disorders like tumours, strokes, and other neurodegenerative diseases. 

What Is MR Brain With Spectroscopy? 

MR Brain with spectroscopy employs a magnetic field and radio waves to create images of the internal structures of the brain. MRS also helps to assess the levels of some chemicals within the brain like choline, creatine, or N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) that indicates the metabolic activity of the brain. 

Types of MR Brain with Spectroscopy 

• Here are several types of MR Brain with Spectroscopy: 
• Proton MRS (1H-MRS): quantifies the number of compounds in the brain that have hydrogen in them.  
• Phosphorus MRS (31P-MRS): quantifies the number of compounds in the brain that have phosphorous in them. 
• Functional MRI (fMRI): assesses how blood flow changes over time to determine areas of activity in the brain. 

List of Parameters Considered During MR Brain with Spectroscopy

• During the test, the specialists focus on the following parameters: 
• Anatomy and structure of the brain.  
• Tumours or cysts.  
• Signs of stroke and or cerebral vasculitis.  
• Changes in metabolism and chemistry of the brain.  
• Impact of age, medication or other conditions on functioning of the brain. 

Reasons for Taking an MR brain with Spectroscopy

• This test is usually prescribed due to the following conditions or symptoms: 
• Brain tumours or their metastasis.  
• Stroke or cerebral vasculitis.  
• Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.  
• Psychosocial developmental disorders like autism or ADHD.  
• Seizure disorders or epilepsy. 

When and Who Needs to Take an MR Brain with Spectroscopy? 

• Here are some situations or symptoms that could lead a healthcare professional to suggest the need for this test:  
• Suffering from severe headaches or seizures. 
• Experiencing weakness or numbness of the face or limbs. 
• Suffering from memory loss and confusion.  
• Having difficulty in speaking or understanding speech. 
• Having a suspected brain tumour or stroke. 
• These groups of patients generally require these tests:  
• Children with suspected developmental disorders. 
• Middle aged patients with a history of brain injuries or infections. 
• People who have a family history of neurodegenerative diseases. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Advantages of MR Brain with Spectroscopy includes: 
• Impeccable detailed images of brain’s structure and functioning.  
• Non-invasive and painless procedure.  
• Wide range of brain disorders can be diagnosed and monitored.  
• Assist in decision making for treatment and management. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MR Brain with Spectroscopy

• Some common diseases conditions that can be diagnosed with this exam are: 
• Brain malignancies (gliomas and meningiomas) 
• Stroke patients or cerebral vasculitis patients 
• Neurodegenerative illnesses (Alzheimer's, Parkinson, etc.) 
• Autism and ADHD as a part of developmental disorders 
• Epilepsy and seizure disorders 

Preparing for MR Brain with Spectroscopy

Patients are to do the following: 

• Dress in loose, comfortable clothes and avoid any jewellery or metal accessories 
• Take off any hair accessories like hair clips, makeup that can obstruct the test from being executed properly 
• Relevant medical files, previous exam results and any documents pertaining to the examination 
• Communication of allergies or underlying medical problems with the healthcare provider 

Pre-requisites 

They could: 

• Abstain from eating or drinking several hours prior to the exam 
• Refrain from taking specific drugs or substances before the examination 
• Other tests may be performed before or after the MR Brain with Spectroscopy at the discretion of the provider. 

Best Time to Take the MR Brain with Spectroscopy 

Timing is flexible for this type of exam, but it can be greatly beneficial in the following cases: 

• After a stroke or traumatic injury to the brain 
• While dealing with a tumour or a neurodegenerative disease 
• Alongside monitoring of patients with a medical history of brain disorders. 

Eligibility  

• Have history of brain disorders and injuries. 
• Have some symptoms suggesting a brain disorder. 
• Have family history of neurodegenerative diseases. 
• Are receiving treatment of a brain tumour or neurodegenerative disease. 

 Procedure for Taking an MR brain with Spectroscopy:  

The entire test is expected to be completed within 30-60 minutes and involves the following: 

• Preparation phase: The patient is placed within the MRI machine and then asked to keep their body immobile. 
• Imaging phase: Brain MRI machines will provide detailed imaging of the various internal parts of the Brain. 
• Spectroscopy: MRS instruments will gauge the concentration of several chemicals within the brain.  
• Test Results: Qualified personnel examine and explain the test’s outcomes. 

Cautions Before the Test 

Patients should. 

• Provide the doctor with any related allergies or co-morbid conditions. 
• Stay away from metallic parts and jewellery pieces which might obstruct the test. 
• Refrain from intake of anything sugary or caffeinated prior to the test.