A to Z of MS Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRI is a scanning technique that produces images of slices through the body. In multiple sclerosis it is frequently used in the diagnosis of the condition and also for monitoring people during research studies.

An MRI machine in use

Having an MRI scan

An MRI scanner consists of a larger tubular magnet with a bed that slides out from the hole in the middle on which the person being scanned lies.

There are no risks associated with MRI scans, which are painless and generally last from half an hour to an hour, during which time the individual will be asked to lie as still as possible. Some people can find this claustrophobic. Whilst scanning, the machine makes loud banging and buzzing noises. Often people are given headphones to make this more tolerable.

As the scanner is a very powerful magnet, all metallic objects must be left outside the scanning room. It is advisable not to wear clothes with metal poppers, zips or metal buckles.

How MRI works

Unlike CT/CAT (computed axial tomography) scanning , which uses x-rays, MRI creates images by using magnetic fields and radio waves to monitor the behaviour of hydrogen atoms in the body.

An MRI scan

The nucleus at the centre of a hydrogen atom spins like a top. The strong magnetic field in an MRI machine (more than 10,000 times stronger than gravity) makes the atoms line up in the direction of the magnetic field.

The machine then fires a pulse of radio waves that causes the atoms to spin in a different direction (causing 'resonance'). When the pulse is turned off, the atoms return to their natural alignment within the magnetic field and release energy. The machine picks up this signal and sends it to a computer, which converts it into an image.

The chemical make up of the scars caused by MS means that they show up as white patches on MRI images, giving a very clear picture of the effects of MS on the brain and spinal cord. By using a contrast enhancing agent called gadolinium, which is injected before the scan, damage to the blood brain barrier can also be identified, which indicates areas of active MS.

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