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Hi Dr. I'm Having A MRI/MRA Of The Brain And
Question: Hi Dr. I'm having a MRI/MRA of the brain and ear canal. im a little scared of the contrast. Could they still see vessels and the ear, neck without contrast? I had a reaction with a CT contrast and I know its different but I'm still afraid.
Brief Answer:
They can be seen without contrast but contrast improves visibility
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service,
I carefully read your query and understand your concern.
MRI and MRA are good at visualizing soft tissues (neck, ear, vessels) so very likely they will give a lot of information about these even without contrast. On the other hand contrast helps in even better visualization and in differentiation of different structures and is very helpful in diagnosing tumors. So contrast improves the visibility and increased the possibility of diagnosing certain conditions.
I would compare it with searching for something in your room in a very dim light or with the light on.
Gadolinium is the contrast generally used in these cases and it is much safer than the standard iodinated contrasts as it causes less allergic reactions.
I would advise you to share your concerns with your doctor and decide together with him. It is for sure he will balance pros and cons and will recommend you the best option in your case, depending on the purpose of the MRI and MRA.
I hope this answers your query and is helpful to you. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General and Family Physician
They can be seen without contrast but contrast improves visibility
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service,
I carefully read your query and understand your concern.
MRI and MRA are good at visualizing soft tissues (neck, ear, vessels) so very likely they will give a lot of information about these even without contrast. On the other hand contrast helps in even better visualization and in differentiation of different structures and is very helpful in diagnosing tumors. So contrast improves the visibility and increased the possibility of diagnosing certain conditions.
I would compare it with searching for something in your room in a very dim light or with the light on.
Gadolinium is the contrast generally used in these cases and it is much safer than the standard iodinated contrasts as it causes less allergic reactions.
I would advise you to share your concerns with your doctor and decide together with him. It is for sure he will balance pros and cons and will recommend you the best option in your case, depending on the purpose of the MRI and MRA.
I hope this answers your query and is helpful to you. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General and Family Physician
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Answered by
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