MR spectroscopy
What is MR spectroscopy?
MR spectroscopy is an advanced technique used in conjunction with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to evaluate the chemical composition of brain tissue. It allows for the measurement of the levels of different metabolites (chemical substances) in the brain, which helps doctors diagnose and differentiate between various conditions, such as tumors, infections, metabolic diseases, or demyelinating diseases.
What is this diagnostic procedure for?
This procedure is useful for:
- Diagnosing brain tumors: it helps to differentiate between tumor tissue and healthy tissue, and to determine the type of tumor.
- Detecting brain infections: it helps identify metabolic changes associated with infections.
- Evaluating metabolic diseases: it helps to identify alterations in brain metabolism.
- Diagnosing demyelinating diseases: it helps detect damage to the myelin, the protective layer of nerve fibers.
Benefits of advanced technology in MR spectroscopy
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy uses magnetic resonance spectra to measure the concentration of key metabolites in the brain, such as:
- N-acetyl aspartate (NAA): a marker of neuronal health.
- Choline (Cho): a marker of cell proliferation.
- Creatine (Cr): a marker of energy metabolism.
- Lactate (Lac): a marker of a lack of oxygen.
By analyzing these metabolites, doctors can obtain valuable information about the state of brain tissue.
The MRI spectroscopy procedure involves:
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Preparation:
You don’t need to prepare in any special way for this procedure. You can eat and drink normally, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
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During the procedure:
When it’s time for the scan, you’ll be asked to lie down comfortably on the MRI table. To obtain more precise images, they will place special coils around your head. It is important that you remain as still as possible during the procedure to ensure the quality of the images. Intravenous contrast will not be necessary, so the procedure is simple and without additional discomfort.
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After the procedure:
You can resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure. A radiologist will analyze the results of the MR spectroscopy and send them to your doctor. They will explain the findings to you and, if necessary, advise you on the most appropriate treatment.
Recommendations for the procedure
- Remain still: it is essential to avoid movement during the procedure to obtain clear and accurate images.
- Communicate claustrophobia: if you suffer from claustrophobia, inform the staff before the procedure. Steps can be taken to help you feel more comfortable.
- Inform about metal implants: inform your doctor and the MRI technician if you have any metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers, surgical clips, prostheses, or hearing aids.
Are there any risks?
MR spectroscopy is a safe and non-invasive procedure that does not use ionizing radiation. It does not present significant risks, but it is important to take special precautions if you have a pacemaker or other metal implants. Some people may feel anxious or claustrophobic during the procedure. If this is your case, let the medical team know so they can support you and make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
To ensure your procedure runs smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the procedure, we will give you the Informed Consent form, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for an MRI, it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental prostheses), tattoos, or drug infusion devices such as insulin pumps.
