Magnetic Resonance Angiography, Upper Extremity — With or Without Intravenous Contrast
An MRA uses magnetic fields and radio waves to examine blood vessels in an arm, with or without injected contrast.
["This imaging test helps evaluate the arteries supplying the arm and hand for narrowing, blockage, or aneurysm."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36861-3
- Short code
- MRA UE ves-R WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA UE ves-R WO+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?
Upper-extremity magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) creates detailed images of the arteries that supply the arm and hand. It may be performed with or without intravenous contrast, depending on the reason for the examination and the imaging protocol.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to evaluate reduced blood flow, a weak or absent pulse, arm or hand pain, numbness, or a cold hand. It may also be used to assess an enlarged or weakened blood vessel, monitor a known condition, or plan a procedure.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while the equipment creates images of the blood vessels. If contrast is used, it is given through a vein in your arm. The scan generally does not use ionizing radiation, and the technologist will guide you through the process.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow any instructions from the imaging center about eating, drinking, and taking medicines. Tell the care team if you have had a prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, or an implanted medical device, because these factors may affect the protocol. Remove jewelry and other metal objects when directed.
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 include narrowing or blockage of an artery, an aneurysm, or an irregular vessel wall. These findings can help explain symptoms and guide further evaluation or treatment, but they must be interpreted by a clinician together with your symptoms and other examination results.
Short name
Upper Extremity MRA
Frequently asked questions
Does an MRA use radiation?
Why might I need contrast during the MRA?
What if I have a contrast allergy or kidney disease?
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