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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Head
What To Think About
- Sometimes your MRI results may be different from earlier test results because you were tested at a different medical center or you had a different kind of test.
- Several special MRI methods have been
developed to look at the brain.
- Magnetic resonance spectroscopy shows changes in brain chemistry that may occur in certain areas of the brain. These changes may help show diseases that affect the brain.
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can be used to study blood vessels. Dye may be injected into the blood vessels so blood flow can be seen clearly. MRA can also be used to show the speed and direction of blood flow. For more information, see the topic Reference Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA).
- Diffusion-perfusion imaging shows the water content and character of the brain. This method can give an early diagnosis of a Reference stroke Opens New Window and may help predict the outcome of stroke. It can also be used to find tumors or inflammation of the brain.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference December 9, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Paul D. Traughber, MD - Diagnostic Radiology |
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