MRI / Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive, painless medical imaging test that helps physicians
diagnose a variety of medical conditions. An MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the body's internal structures. Because an MRI does not use harmful
radiation, there are no adverse consequences to having the test done. Patients who are claustrophobic may require anti anxiety medication because the machine has a small bore (1).
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Using magnetic fields and radio waves, the MRI machine can reflect the differing degrees of water in fat content among various body tissues. Because
disease often affects the water in tissue, a radiologist can interpret an MRI to detect abnormalities, such as tumors, in tissue. Detailed images from an MRI allow physicians to better evaluate parts of the body or diseased tissue that may not be assessed adequately with other imaging methods such as x-ray, ultrasound or CT scans. An MRI can assist in the initial diagnoses,
staging, and
treatment of
cancer (1, 2).
Some MRI examinations may require the patient to swallow contrast material or receive an injection of contrast into the bloodstream. The process of undergoing an MRI is painless. The patient lies on a table that retracts into a large cylinder-shaped tube surrounded by a circular magnet. Because powerful magnets are involved, patients are asked to dress in clothes which do not contain any metal (any internal metal components, such as artificial heart valves, may or may not prohibit the patient from receiving an MRI). MRI machines are loud while operating, and earplugs are provided for the patients. The test usually lasts about 45 minutes in total, with the machine operating for several minutes at a time intermittently throughout that time (1).
MRI scans are sometimes required for mesothelioma patients to help determine the extent of tumor spreading, and to establish which are the best treatment options. Regarding pleural mesothelioma, there is some debate among physicians regarding whether CT scans alone are adequate in staging the disease for purposes of determining surgery options, or whether an MRI is a necessary part of the diagnostic process (3).