Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic test that uses a high-intensitymagnetic field and radio waves, allowing the internal structures of organs to be visualized with great definition, and is capable of identifying various health problems, such as aneurysms, tumors, changes in joints or other injuries to internal organs.
This test, also known as nuclear magnetic resonance (MRI), is requested by the doctor in cases of suspected alterations in the brain, spinal cord, heart, bones, joints or other organs such as the kidneys, liver or gallbladder, and in some cases gadolinium contrast may be used to obtain better quality images.
What it’s for
Magnetic resonance imaging is used to assess, identify, diagnose and monitor the treatment of various health conditions, such as:
- Alzheimer’s;
- Brain tumor;
- Multiple sclerosis;
- STROKE;
- Cerebral or aortic aneurysm;
- Injuries or trauma to the brain;
- Inflammations or infections of the brain, nerves or joints;
- Myocardial infarction;
- Tendonitis;
- Herniated discs;
- Ligament injuries or cysts;
- Bone infections, such as osteomyelitis;
- Bone or soft tissue tumor;
- Breast tumor;
- Lesions, alterations or tumors in the spinal cord;
- Changes in the heart’s muscles, chambers, valves or vessels;
- Congenital heart disease;
- Cirrhosis;
- Crohn’s disease;
- Ulcerative colitis;
- Changes in blood vessels, such as aneurysms or blood clots.
In addition, MRI can be used to assess lesions, changes, masses or tumors in the body’s organs, such as the liver, gallbladder, lungs, kidneys, uterus, ovaries, prostate, spleen, pancreas or adrenal glands, for example.
