MRI of the head (Brain and Skull) is an excellent technique to evaluate the brain and skull morphology in high detail and is used to detect abnormalities, pathologies and anomalies.
MRI Skull is most often performed as a separate sequence to MRI Brain generating images of the bony skull. MRI of the skull is often used to determine the nature of a lesion on or directly adjacent to the skull, and can arise from the calvarium itself, from the brain or from the skin.
Indications for a Brain MRI are often following:
- Chronic, unremitting headache
- Vertigo
- Epilepsy, sclerosis multiplex, etc.
- Cancer (primary or metastasis)
- Stroke (bleed or an ischemic event)
- Age-Related diseases (dementia)
- Growth disorders
- Suspicion of multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
The region of the brain called the hypothalamus is responsible for the regulation of the hormone system. The hypothalamus controls the function of different glands of the body responsible for releasing hormones and regulating body temperature.
Pathology or abnormalities in this area such as lesions may cause problems in other parts of the body often manifests in widespread, diffuse symptoms.
Brain MRI can be combined with a Brain MRA when indicated.
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye