MRI tomorrow; question about contrast...

[Lb1977]

I have my MRI (and MRA) tomorrow as ordered by the MS specialist. This time on a 3T with and without contrast. My first brain MRI was with no contrast on a 1.5T.

Is the contrast necessary? What will it pick up vs. no contrast?

[golfore]

The contrast helps identify active lesions. It's like having 2 MRI's
I believe its very common. I have not had a brain MRI that didn't didn't include contrast.

[akafearless]

I think the contrast shows any of your lesions which are currently active

[Lb1977]

Thanks to both of you...

I am not currently having symptoms but was a couple of weeks ago. Hopefully they stay "active" long enough to show up tomorrow.

[SNOOPY]

Hi Lb1977,

A MRI will show an abnormality without the use of contrast.

Contrast will only "light up" an abnormality which is currently active (inflammation). Contrast will not show anything that wasn't already on the MRI without contrast.

[Beccah0206]

Contrast

I'm allergic to gadolineum so mine next week be without. She said that she doesn't think she will need it. If it turns out necessary she can give me steroids thenbenadryl ajdmdo it at the hospital.

As the others are saying, the gadolineum lights up currently active lesions.