MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING AND ITS ROLE IN CANCER DETECTION

 

A non-invasive medical testing method, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), employs a potent magnetic field, radio waves, and computer processing to create high-resolution images of internal bodily structures. Since it doesn't employ ionizing radiation, this method is deemed safe and appropriate for a variety of medical tests.

During the exam, the patient is placed inside a narrow tube, which contains a large magnet. The magnetic field is used to align the hydrogen atoms in the patient's body, which emit radio signals when stimulated by radio pulses. These signals are detected by radio antennas and used to produce detailed images of tissues and internal structures in the body.

MRI is often used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including brain and spinal cord injuries, tumors, bone injuries, joint injuries, blood vessel problems, and central nervous system disorders. Additionally, MRI is often used to guide invasive procedures such as biopsies and surgery. However, not all patients can have an MRI safely, such as those with cardiac pacemakers, cochlear implants, vascular stents, and other medical devices that contain metal. It is important to let your doctor know if you have any implanted medical devices before the test.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE VS. COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are two imaging tests that are often used in the detection and diagnosis of cancer. CT uses X-rays to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. During the exam, the patient is placed on a table that moves through a ring that emits X-rays. Images are captured at different angles and then combined to form a three-dimensional image.

During the exam, the patient is placed on a table that moves into a tube that contains a giant magnet. The magnet creates a magnetic field that aligns the hydrogen molecules in the patient's body, and radio waves are used to "read" these molecules and produce an image.

Both tests are often used to diagnose cancer, but they have different advantages and disadvantages. CT is generally faster and more widely available than MRI, and is often used to detect tumors in solid organs such as the liver, pancreas, lungs, and bone. On the other hand, MRI is often used to detect tumors in soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, neck, abdomen and pelvis. MRI is also especially useful for detecting brain metastases and spinal cord tumors.

In general, the choice between MRI and CT will depend on the type and location of the cancer in question, as well as physician and patient preferences. In some cases, both tests can be used together to provide more complete information about the cancer.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE AND CANCER

As far as cancer detection is concerned, MRI is a powerful tool that can help fight the disease. This exam has the ability to diagnose different types of cancer and distinguish benign from malignant tumors. In the case of brain cancers, for example, MRI can be extremely effective when combined with the administration of a contrast agent.

Some MRI machines have specific coils for breast analysis. Although not used independently, magnetic resonance imaging is an excellent tool for detecting breast cancer in women at high risk of developing the disease when used in conjunction with mammography.

During patient follow-up, magnetic resonance imaging plays an important role, allowing the doctor to check the size of the tumor more accurately and identify the presence of other tumors in the breast. In addition, MRI can be used to see if the cancer has spread.

HOW DOES THE EXAM WORK?

Below is a more detailed explanation of the procedure, divided into steps:

1. The patient is positioned lying down on a stretcher, which is then slid into the tube of the MRI machine.
2. If necessary, the doctor may order the patient to drink liquid or receive an intravenous injection containing a contrast medium. This contrast medium can help enhance the images obtained by the MRI machine.
3. When the machine is activated, it records detailed images of the inside of the patient's body. These images are created from a combination of the strong magnetic field and radio frequency waves, which are emitted by the machine.
4. During the exam, at times, the technician in charge may ask the patient to hold their breath for a short period of time. This may be necessary to reduce body movement and prevent image quality from being degraded.

With these steps, it is possible to obtain more accurate and detailed images of the inside of the patient's body, helping in the detection and diagnosis of several health conditions, including cancer.

PRE-EXAMINATION

Before performing an MRI for cancer detection, it is important to follow the guidelines of your doctor or the imaging center responsible for the exam. Some common recommendations include:

• Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially if they include any type of metal (eg, pacemakers, metal implants, etc.), as they may interfere with the test results.
• Avoid consuming caffeinated foods or drinks, such as coffee, tea, soft drinks or chocolate, at least four hours before the exam, as they may interfere with the quality of the images.
• Wear comfortable clothing and avoid jewelry or other metal objects.
• Please let the technician or doctor performing the test know if you are claustrophobic or have an anxiety disorder, as this may affect your ability to perform the test.
• If necessary, intravenous contrast may be given during the exam to help improve visualization of certain areas. If you have had an allergic reaction to a contrast agent in the past, inform your doctor in advance.

It is important to follow all guidelines to ensure the accuracy of the results and to minimize any potential risks. Remember to clarify any doubts with your doctor or with the imaging center responsible for the exam.

SIDE EFFECTS

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a commonly used diagnostic tool to detect cancer and other medical conditions. While generally safe, MRI can have side effects in some people. Here are some of the side effects that can occur during or after an MRI scan:

• Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the dye used in MRI. Symptoms can include itchiness, rashes, swelling and difficulty breathing.
• Claustrophobia: Some people may experience claustrophobia during an MRI. The procedure is performed in an enclosed machine, which may be uncomfortable for some people.
• Dizziness: MRI involves strong magnetic fields, which can cause dizziness in some people.
• Ringing in the ears: The magnetic fields used in MRI can cause ringing in the ears in some people.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea during or after the MRI. This can be caused by the moving machine or exposure to magnetic fields.

It's important to remember that these side effects are rare and generally mild. If you are concerned about the side effects of MRI, talk to your doctor. They can help you better understand the risks and benefits of the procedure and answer any questions you may have.