MRI BRAIN WITH SPECTROSCOPY

What is MRI Brain with Spectroscopy?

• Combines Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) pictures with Spectroscopy data.
• Maps brain structure and chemical makeup in one session.
• Uses strong magnets—no radiation.

How the Test Combines Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy

1. MRI captures detailed anatomical images.
2. Spectroscopy adds metabolic peaks that reveal levels of key brain chemicals.
3. Software overlays both datasets for a complete diagnostic picture.

Key Uses in Clinical Practice

• Characterize brain tumors (benign vs malignant).
• Pinpoint epilepsy seizure focus.
• Evaluate metabolic and mitochondrial disorders.
• Differentiate infection from tumor.
• Monitor chemotherapy or radiation response.

• NAA (N-Acetylaspartate) – marker of healthy neurons.
• Choline (Cho) – high in rapidly dividing cells (tumor).
• Creatine (Cr) – internal reference peak.
• Lactate – signals anaerobic metabolism (ischemia/tumor).
• Lipid – indicates necrosis or infection.
• Myo-inositol – raised in Alzheimer’s and gliosis.
• Glutamate-Glutamine Complex – altered in epilepsy.

• Brain tumor characterization: Distinguish glioma from lymphoma.
• Epilepsy focus localization: Identify temporal lobe sclerosis.
• Metabolic disorder evaluation: Detect mitochondrial disease.
• Infection or abscess differentiation: Spot tuberculoma vs cysticercosis.
• Treatment response monitoring: See if tumor is shrinking or necrotic.

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Non-invasive metabolic brain assessment—no needles into the brain.
• Early detection of malignancy before symptoms worsen.
• Guiding biopsy or surgery planning—hit the most aggressive area.
• Monitoring therapy effectiveness—adjust chemo in real time.

Illnesses Diagnosed with MR Brain with Spectroscopy

• Gliomas and Glioblastomas.
• Metastatic brain lesions.
• Temporal lobe epilepsy.
• Mitochondrial disorders (e.g., MELAS).
• Radiation necrosis vs recurrence after cancer therapy.

Fasting Requirements

• 4-hour fast if contrast is planned.
• Water is allowed; stay hydrated.

Metal Implant Screening

• Bring device card for any implant.
• Inform staff about orthopedic screws, dental implants, or tattoos with metallic ink.

Clothing and Jewelry Guidelines

• Wear cotton clothes without metal zippers.
• Leave jewelry, watches, and phones in lockers.

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Pre-requisites

• Recent creatinine test (within 4 weeks) if gadolinium contrast is expected.
• Pregnancy screening for women of child-bearing age.
• Bring previous imaging CDs and reports for comparison.

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Best Time to Take the MRI Brain with Spectroscopy

• Morning appointments preferred for diabetic patients—stable blood sugar.
• Avoid caffeine 4 hours prior to reduce motion.
• Schedule after initial MRI findings to target specific areas.

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Eligibility

• Age: Infants to elderly (neonatal coil available).
• Weight limit: Up to 180 kg on our wide-bore scanner.
• Exclusions: Cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implant, recent vascular clips.

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Procedure for Taking an MRI Brain with Spectroscopy

Check-in and Safety Screening

• Arrive 30 minutes early.
• Fill out safety questionnaire and metal checklist.

Positioning and Coil Placement

• Lie on the table; a head coil fits like a helmet.
• Cushions and earplugs provided for comfort.

Scan Duration (45–60 minutes)

• Routine MRI: 25–30 min.
• Spectroscopy add-on: extra 15–20 min depending on technique.

Post-Scan Care Instructions

• Resume normal activities immediately if no sedation.
• If sedated, rest in recovery for 30 minutes—bring an escort.

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Caution Before Taking the Test

• Report allergies, especially to gadolinium or shellfish.
• Discuss anxiety medication 24 hours prior if claustrophobic.
• Double-check pockets—remove coins and credit cards.