MR Angiography, Neck Vessels — With or Without IV Contrast
This imaging test uses magnetic resonance angiography to examine blood vessels in the neck. It may be performed with or without injected IV contrast.
["Neck MRA helps evaluate the neck's major blood vessels and may identify narrowing, blockage, or other vascular abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36423-2
- Short code
- MRA Neck ves WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA Neck ves WO+W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- CPT
- 82553
- 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?
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is an MRI-based imaging test that shows the major blood vessels in the neck. The examination may include an intravenous contrast agent or may be performed without contrast, depending on the exact protocol.
Why might I need this test?
A neck MRA may be ordered to evaluate suspected narrowing, blockage, or other problems involving the arteries or veins of the neck. It may also be used to assess vessels before another procedure, monitor a known condition, or investigate symptoms such as neck or head pain, dizziness, or changes in blood flow.
How is the test performed?
You will usually lie still inside an MRI scanner while images of the neck vessels are acquired. If IV contrast is part of the examination, it is injected through a small intravenous line; the scanner may also create images that show blood flow.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the staff about metal implants, medication patches, pregnancy, kidney disease, or any prior reaction to MRI contrast. If IV contrast will be used, the staff may ask about allergies and kidney function; fasting is generally not required unless specifically requested.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a neck artery, an abnormal vessel bulge, an arterial tear, or an unusual blood-flow pattern. The location and importance of any finding depend on the affected vessel and the reason for the examination. A radiologist will interpret the images, and your clinician will explain the results and any recommended follow-up.
Short name
Neck Vessel MRA
Frequently asked questions
Is neck MRA the same as a routine neck MRI?
Will I receive contrast for this test?
Is the test safe if I am claustrophobic?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy