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What Does My MRI Scan Report Indicate?

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Posted on Tue, 1 Dec 2015
Question: I'm 53 yr female. I had a brain MRI because the constant headachesm I thought it was related to my ear (tinnitus). The results mention a minimal cerebellar tonsillar ectopia, also chronic microvascular ischemia. The doctor just says that it is part of the aging process or migraines. Can you clarify?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (54 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
White matter changes most likely caused by high blood pressure or migraine.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

White matter changes found on MRI are primarily related to uncontrolled high blood pressure.

Migraine and other neurologic conditions such multiple sclerosis are among other causes of white matter changes, but these conditions manifest with typical neurological symptoms too.

Slight brain mass loss is a common finding with increasing age.

Cerebellar tonsils ectopia also is not a cause of concern since there are no symptoms related.

Tinnitus in your case is most likely related to inner ear dysfunction, since there are no brain lesions in MRI that may explain it.

In conclusion, if you suffered from migraines in the past, white matter changes are a common finding in brain MRI.

If not, then assessment of high blood pressure should be discussed with your Doctor.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4502 Questions

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What Does My MRI Scan Report Indicate?

Brief Answer: White matter changes most likely caused by high blood pressure or migraine. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. White matter changes found on MRI are primarily related to uncontrolled high blood pressure. Migraine and other neurologic conditions such multiple sclerosis are among other causes of white matter changes, but these conditions manifest with typical neurological symptoms too. Slight brain mass loss is a common finding with increasing age. Cerebellar tonsils ectopia also is not a cause of concern since there are no symptoms related. Tinnitus in your case is most likely related to inner ear dysfunction, since there are no brain lesions in MRI that may explain it. In conclusion, if you suffered from migraines in the past, white matter changes are a common finding in brain MRI. If not, then assessment of high blood pressure should be discussed with your Doctor. Hope you found the answer helpful. Let me know if I can assist you further. Greetings.