An MRI of the kidneys (renal MRI) is performed when a disease of the kidneys is suspected. This can be either inflammatory changes, chronic illness, malignant findings or benign lesions like a common cyst or a hemangioma (slow-growing vascular lesion) of the renal cortex.
Adrenal glands sit in the proximity of the upper portion of the kidneys and can be affected by pathological conditions as well. An MRI is a highly sensitive technique for distinguishing between different conditions affecting the adrenal glands.
Sometimes Renal MRI is performed on an indication to assess the blood flow to the kidneys. This scan is called Renal MRA or Magnetic Resonance Angiography of the kidneys (renals).
Read more about MRA
Read more about Renal MRA
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