A Lung MRI scan (also called Thoracic or Chest MRI) is used to evaluate internal organs located in the chest cavity: lung parenchyma (inside of the lungs), mediastinum (located centrally between the lungs, behind the breastbone and hosts the heart, lymph nodes and large blood vessels).
Indications for an MRI of the Lungs (Chest MRI) are to detect abnormalities or pathology on the chest wall, lungs (pleura), of the soft tissue around the breastbone (sternum), of the oesophagus or posterior ribs.
However, a CT scan is preferred to Lung MRI visualise lung tissue itself. This is because of the need for breath-holding techniques during the scan, as movement will give rise to artefacts in the images. These artefacts can potentially cause false positive or negative results as they can mimic pathology or disguise it.
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