What is a pituitary MRI ?

• Magnetic resonance imaging is anon invasive diagnostic exam that produces detailed images of your body.
• An MRI machine doesn’t use an x-ray but use a powerful magnetic field,radio wave and computer to createimages.
• MRI doesn’t use radiation and can be done without contrast or with contrast when needed (gadolinium contrast material which is safe and less likely to cause allergic reaction).
• A pituitary MRI makes pictures of the pituitary gland (small gland in the brain that controls hormones and other glands in the body) and surrounding areas in the brain.
• A typical targeted MRI examination of the pituitary region includes coronal and sagittal small field of view T1 and T1 post-contrast images, as well as dynamic contrast-enhanced coronal images, which are critical for the identification of small micro adenomas. T2 weighted sequences are often also included, although are of relatively little-added benefit.

Why do I need a pituitary MRI?

• In general, MRI is prescribed in almost all disorders of brain function.
• In most cases pituitary MRI is relevant for the suspected adenoma of the pituitary gland and especially if such a tumor progresses rapidly.

Other indications for pituitary MRI:
• Symptoms Suspected Cushings syndrome as (unusual hair growth, weight gain irregular menses).
• Unidentified cause of hyperactivity of certain hormones.
• Symptoms of increase release of prolactin hormone as (milky breast discharge, irregular menses, and infertility).
• Unidentified cause of migraineheadache.
• Sharpe deterioration of vision for no apparent reason.
• Change in body weight (weight loss or weight gain).
• Unidentified cause of erectile dysfunction in men.

How to Prepare for a pituitary MRI ?

You should not have to do too much to prepare for pituitary MRI. You may be able to eat, drink and take your medications as usual. However, if your doctor ordered a scan for other parts of your body, such as your abdominal region, they may instruct you not to drink or eat four to six hours before the test.
MRI machine is essentially a magnet; it can interact with metals, thus creating a blurry image. That’s why it helps to leave metal items at home before your appointment, or remove them before you enter the scanning room. You can prepare forpituitary MRI of time by removing the following items from your body and pockets:
• Body piercings
• Pens
• Jewelry
• Hearing aids
• Pins
• Hairpins
• Zippers or any metal clothing fasteners.
• Removable dental work.

Before you schedule your appointment forpituitary MRI, make sure to inform the medical staff if you have any of the following conditions:
• Brain aneurysm clips, metal plates or any metal implants.
• Artificial heart valve.
• Pacemaker.
• Inner ear implants.
• Artificial joints.
• Women should always inform their physician and the MRI technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
• You should inform your doctor of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.
• Inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, and diabetes or kidney disease.

In case of contrast Examinations:
• You should not to eat or drink anything (fasting) for a few hours (4 to 6 h) before the exam.
• You should do renal functions test.