Understanding Your MRI Results
Your MRI report contains detailed information about the imaging technique used and specific findings that help your doctor understand your condition and plan appropriate treatment.
MRI Report Components
Technical Information
- The report includes details about the MRI technique used, including:
- Anatomical area examined (brain, spine, or other body part)
- Field strength of the MRI machine (typically 1.5T or 3.0T)
- Slice thickness (how detailed the images are)
- Type and dose of contrast agent if used
- Sequences performed (different types of images taken) 1
Findings Section
The findings section describes what the radiologist observed, including:
- Number and location of any lesions or abnormalities
- Size and shape of these findings
- Characteristics of tissues examined
- Presence of inflammation, fluid, or other changes
- Comparison to what's considered normal 1
Conclusion
The conclusion summarizes the radiologist's interpretation and relates it to your clinical situation:
- Whether findings are typical for a specific condition
- If findings meet diagnostic criteria for certain diseases
- Evidence of active disease or progression
- Any incidental findings that may or may not be relevant 1
Common MRI Findings and What They Mean
Brain MRI
- White spots (hyperintensities) may indicate inflammation, small vessel disease, or demyelination
- Areas of enhancement after contrast may indicate active inflammation or breakdown of the blood-brain barrier
- Brain atrophy (shrinkage) may be noted if present 1
Spine MRI
- Disc abnormalities (herniation, bulging)
- Nerve compression or inflammation
- Spinal cord signal changes that may indicate inflammation or injury
- Bone abnormalities affecting the spinal canal 1
What Happens Next
Your doctor will interpret these findings in the context of your symptoms and medical history. MRI is just one tool that helps guide diagnosis and treatment decisions. Some findings may require:
- Follow-up imaging to monitor changes over time
- Additional testing to confirm a diagnosis
- Referral to specialists based on the findings
- Treatment adjustments based on evidence of disease activity 1
Remember that MRI findings must always be interpreted in the context of your clinical symptoms, as some abnormalities may be incidental and not related to your current symptoms.