Adrenal Glands — Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Without Contrast
An MRI of the adrenal glands that uses no contrast agent to produce detailed images and evaluate adrenal masses, enlargement, or other structural changes.
["This MRI creates detailed pictures of the adrenal glands without using IV contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36954-6
- Short code
- MR Adrenal WO contr
- Synonyms
- MR Adrenal WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a magnetic resonance imaging scan of the adrenal glands, the small hormone-producing glands above each kidney. It provides detailed pictures to help assess adrenal masses, enlargement, cysts, bleeding, and other structural changes.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered to investigate an adrenal finding seen on another scan or to evaluate symptoms that could be related to an adrenal disorder. It may also be used to characterize an adrenal mass and guide further testing or monitoring.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table that moves into a large MRI scanner. The machine uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images, and you may hear loud tapping or clicking sounds. You will usually be asked to remain still during the scan.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is generally not required for an MRI without contrast, but follow the instructions provided by the imaging facility. Tell the technologist about metal implants, medical devices, pregnancy, or severe claustrophobia, and bring any relevant prior imaging for comparison.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal result may indicate a benign adenoma, cyst, hemorrhage, enlargement, or another adrenal mass. Some adrenal tumors can produce hormones, but imaging alone generally cannot determine whether a mass is hormonally active, so laboratory testing may also be needed. Your clinician will interpret the MRI together with your symptoms, hormone tests, and other imaging findings.
Short name
Adrenal MRI without contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is contrast used for this MRI?
Can this test diagnose an adrenal tumor?
Is the MRI safe if I have a metal implant?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy