HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Head
Results
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.
The Reference radiologist Opens New Window may tell you some of the results of the MRI right after the test. Full results are sent to your doctor or specialist in 1 to 2 days.
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Normal: |
All structures of the head—the brain, its vessels, spaces, nerves, and surrounding structures—are normal. |
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No abnormal growths, such as tumors, in or around the brain are present. |
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No bleeding, abnormal blood vessels (AV malformations), abnormal pockets of fluid, blockage in the flow of blood, or bulges in the blood vessels (Reference aneurysm Opens New Window) are present. |
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No signs of infection or inflammatory disease, such as Reference encephalitis Opens New Window or Reference meningitis Opens New Window, are present. |
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Abnormal: |
Tumors in the brain or in areas outside the brain, such as an Reference acoustic neuroma Opens New Window, are present. |
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Bleeding or swelling (edema) in or around the brain is present. |
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Areas of infection or inflammatory disease, such as encephalitis or meningitis, are present. |
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Abnormal areas in the brain may mean that certain diseases, such as Reference Huntington's disease Opens New Window, Reference multiple sclerosis Opens New Window, Reference Parkinson's disease Opens New Window, or Reference Alzheimer's disease Opens New Window, are present. |
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Bulges or weak areas (aneurysms) or abnormal blood vessels (such as an AV malformation) are present. |
| 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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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.
