Will an MRI show an aneurysm in the brain?

Asked by JLeslie (65774

) 3 weeks ago

Does it require dye to detect it, or a regular MRI without contrast is sufficient?

The person asking wants to request an MRI instead of a CT if a CT is suggested, but obviously only if an MRI is actually a good diagnostic tool for it.

Obviously, they will be talking to their doctor. They did google to read up on it (so did I) and we can’t find a clear answer if both diagnostic tools are as good as the other. The reason they want to know is they don’t want the radiation of the CT and we all know insurance prefers CT’s.

Please no lectures about how little radiation in a CT, I also tend to want to avoid x-rays.

Observing members: 0

Composing members: 0

6 Answers

They both work and give different information and both have their risks. X-rays are not one of the risks. This is the only time I will answer on this thread.

Caravanfan (13845

)“Great Answer” (8

) Flag as…

That contrast dye is hard on your kidneys. Careful there if you already have issues.

Blackwater_Park (9185

)“Great Answer” (2

) Flag as…

Yes, an MRI of the brain can show aneurysms. MRI scans use strong magnetic fields to create detailed images of the brain, allowing doctors to determine the size, shape, and location of aneurysms. These scans can be valuable in detecting blood vessel abnormalities and the anatomy of aneurysms and other vascular lesions.

https://www.healthline.com/health/mri-brain-aneurysm

A CT can also.

https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-aneurysm-ct-scan

If they want to do a dye scan, ask them to check your BUN and creatinine first to make sure your kidneys aren’t already compromised. They should automatically check but a reminder never hurts.

smudges (11226

)“Great Answer” (0

) Flag as…

That’s why she doesn’t want the dye, her kidneys.

JLeslie (65774

)“Great Answer” (1

) Flag as…

She can minimize any effects by drinking lot of water, plus they’ve tweaked the dye formula to minimize effects. If her labs are screwy they won’t do the dye; if they’re ok, it means the kidneys can handle the dye safely. It’s usually eliminated within 24 hours if I remember right.

smudges (11226

)“Great Answer” (2

) Flag as…