Contrast-enhanced MRI is a diagnostic imaging test that combines the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a contrast agent to enhance the visibility of certain tissues and structures within the body.
The contrast agent used in this procedure is typically a gadolinium-based substance that is injected into the bloodstream before or during the MRI scan.
This type of MRI is particularly useful for visualizing abnormalities such as tumors, inflammation, and areas of increased blood flow.
By highlighting specific areas of interest, contrast-enhanced MRI can provide detailed images that help healthcare providers make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans.
Examples of conditions that may benefit from contrast-enhanced MRI include brain tumors, spinal cord lesions, joint disorders, and certain types of cancer.
By enhancing the contrast between healthy and abnormal tissues, this imaging technique can provide valuable information that may not be as clear on a standard MRI scan.
The primary purpose of performing a contrast-enhanced MRI test is to improve the visibility of certain tissues and structures in the body that may be difficult to distinguish on a standard MRI scan.
By using a contrast agent, healthcare providers can enhance the contrast between normal and abnormal tissues, making it easier to detect and evaluate various conditions.
Benefits of contrast-enhanced MRI include:
Scenarios where contrast-enhanced MRI may be useful include:
The costs of contrast-enhanced MRI tests in India can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the facility, the specific imaging protocol used, and whether additional scans or procedures are required.
On average, the price range for a contrast-enhanced MRI in India is between INR 5000 to INR 15000.
Factors that can influence the cost of a contrast-enhanced MRI test include:
It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider or the imaging center to get an accurate estimate of the cost of a contrast-enhanced MRI test and to understand any potential out-of-pocket expenses that may apply.
The normal range for contrast-enhanced MRI values can vary depending on the specific imaging protocol used and the area of the body being scanned.
In general, contrast-enhanced MRI values are measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml) or as a percentage of enhancement compared to baseline.
Here is a table showing the ranges and their meanings:
|
Contrast-enhanced MRI Value |
Interpretation |
|
0-10 mg/ml |
Normal |
|
10-20 mg/ml |
Mildly elevated |
|
20-30 mg/ml |
Moderately elevated |
|
Above 30 mg/ml |
Significantly elevated |
A contrast-enhanced MRI can help diagnose conditions like tumors, infections, inflammation, blood vessel abnormalities, and certain types of heart disease.
High contrast-enhanced MRI levels can indicate increased vascularity, inflammation, or the presence of abnormal tissue within the body.
Low contrast-enhanced MRI levels may indicate reduced vascularity, scarring, or necrosis (tissue death) within the body.
Contrast-enhanced MRI involves injecting a contrast agent into your bloodstream to help highlight specific tissues or blood vessels, which can provide more detailed images than a regular MRI scan.
Using contrast in MRI helps enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels, making it easier for doctors to detect abnormalities or diseases in the body.
Contrast during an MRI is usually given through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm. It helps to improve visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels in the images.
Potential risks of using contrast agents in MRI include allergic reactions, kidney problems, and very rarely, a condition called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, especially in patients with poor kidney function.
Contrast-enhanced MRI helps detect tumors by using a contrast agent that highlights blood vessels and abnormal tissue, making tumors easier to see on the images.
Contrast-enhanced MRI helps doctors get a better view of the brain and spinal cord by highlighting certain structures or abnormalities that may not be as clear on a regular MRI. It can help identify tumors, inflammation, blood vessel abnormalities, or areas with disrupted blood-brain barrier.
Before getting a contrast-enhanced MRI, inform your doctor about any allergies, kidney problems, or pregnancy. It's also important to follow instructions about fasting or medication changes.
Contrast-enhanced MRI helps show blood flow and inflammation in joints and soft tissues, which can help in diagnosing injuries like tears, inflammation, or infections more accurately.
Contrast-enhanced MRI helps doctors see areas of active inflammation and new lesion formation in the brain and spinal cord, which are markers of disease activity in multiple sclerosis.