Magnetic Resonance Angiography of Arteries with Intravenous Contrast
This imaging test uses magnetic resonance imaging and intravenous contrast to examine arteries, particularly in the head, neck, chest, abdomen, or limbs.
["MR angiography with contrast helps evaluate arteries for narrowing, blockage, and other vascular abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26183-4
- Short code
- MRA TI ves-R W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA TI ves-R W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- CPT
- 85651
- 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, or MRA, creates detailed images of blood vessels using magnetic fields and radio waves. Intravenous contrast may be injected to make the arteries easier to see.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered to investigate symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, vision changes, chest discomfort, or reduced blood flow to an arm or leg. It may also be used to monitor known arterial narrowing or evaluate blood vessels before a procedure.
How is the test performed?
You usually lie on a table inside a magnetic resonance scanner. Several images are taken, and if contrast is used, it is given through a vein in your arm.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell the care team about prior contrast reactions, kidney problems, pregnancy, metallic implants, or devices that may be affected by magnets. Follow the facility's instructions about eating, drinking, and taking medicines.
Reference range
Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A
No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate an arterial narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, or other blood-vessel abnormality. Results are interpreted together with symptoms, examination findings, and other tests. A radiologist will provide the formal interpretation, and your clinician will explain what it means for you.
Short name
MR angiography with contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is MR angiography the same as a CT angiogram?
Is the intravenous contrast safe?
Will I need to stay in the scanner for a long time?
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