Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Head

Reference Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Opens New Window is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to take pictures of the head. In many cases, MRI gives information that cannot be seen on an Reference X-ray Opens New Window, Reference ultrasound Opens New Window, or Reference computed tomography (CT) scan Opens New Window.

For an MRI of the head, you lie with your head inside a special machine (scanner) that has a strong magnet. The MRI can show tissue damage or disease, such as infection, inflammation, or a tumor. Information from an MRI can be saved and stored on a computer for more study. Photographs or films of certain views can also be made. See MRI images of a person who has had a Reference stroke Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window or a Reference seizure Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window.

In some cases, a dye (Reference contrast material Opens New Window) may be used during the MRI to show pictures of structures more clearly. The dye may help show blood flow, look for some types of tumors, and show areas of inflammation.

MRI of the head may be used to look for the cause of headaches. For more information, see:

Opens New Window Headaches: Should I Have Imaging tests to Find Out What's Causing My Headaches? Opens New Window

See pictures of a Reference standard MRI machine Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window and an Reference open MRI machine Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window.

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