HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Results
A Reference magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Opens New Window is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body.
The Reference radiologist Opens New Window may discuss initial results of the MRI with you right after the test. Complete results are usually ready for your doctor in 1 to 2 days.
An MRI can sometimes find a problem in a tissue or organ even when the size and shape of the tissue or organ looks normal.
| Normal: |
The organs, blood vessels, bones, and joints are normal in size, shape, appearance, and location. |
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No abnormal growths, such as tumors, are present. |
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No bleeding, abnormal fluid, blockage in the flow of blood, or bulges in the blood vessels (Reference aneurysms Opens New Window) are present. |
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No signs of inflammation or infection are present. |
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| Abnormal: |
An organ is too large, too small, damaged, or absent. |
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Abnormal growths (such as tumors) are present. |
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Abnormal fluid from a cause such as bleeding or an infection is present. Fluid is found around the lungs or heart. Fluid is found around the liver, bowel, or other organ in the abdomen. |
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A blood vessel is narrowed or blocked. An aneurysm is present. |
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Blockage in the gallbladder Reference bile Opens New Window ducts or in the tubes (Reference ureters Opens New Window) that lead out of the kidneys is present. |
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Damage to Reference joints Opens New Window, Reference ligaments Opens New Window, or Reference cartilage Opens New Window is seen. Bones are broken or show infection or disease. |
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Problems of the nervous system are present, such as Reference multiple sclerosis (MS) Opens New Window, Reference dementia Opens New Window, Reference Alzheimer's disease Opens New Window, or Reference herniated disc Opens New Window. |
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference May 16, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
