Non contrast mri brain tumor

[Vasoka]

Hello, I need some help understanding the contrast need for a MRI. Now, I had a MRI four days ago to rule out MS/brain tumors becasue i've been having some headaches/diziness/mild confusion. The radiologist asked me before the test itself if i accept contrast to be injected in me if there is need for it. However, once they got me out of the MRI after 25 min or so they told me contrast wasn't needed and everything is clear. Now I need to ask, can they miss tumors on a non contrast MRI? My understanding is that the contrast just provides detail about the tumor, it doesn't show it, right? All tumors should still be detected by a non contrast MRI? If both my CT and MRI without contrast are clean, am i safe from tumor? My understanding is that a tumor big enough to cause headaches/nausea/diziness would be seen, right?

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Yes, most tumours are detected by a plain MRI itself while contrast is usually used to study tumour characteristics or clearly define a described lesion. If primary images are found to be clear the possibility of a tumour is ruled out and without specific indications, a contrast MRI is rarely required.
Hope the information is helpful.

Take care!

[Vasoka]

Anyone?

[Vasoka]

Anyone have an idea?