Magnetic Resonance Angiography with Intravenous Contrast
An MRI-based exam of blood vessels performed with IV contrast to help identify narrowing, blockage, aneurysms, or other vascular abnormalities.
["MRA with IV contrast uses magnetic imaging and injected contrast to provide detailed pictures of blood vessels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25058-9
- Short code
- MRA W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA W contr IV
- 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-angio
- 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, is an MRI-based imaging test that creates detailed pictures of blood vessels. Intravenous contrast is injected through a vein to help make the vessels and blood flow easier to see.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to evaluate symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or a pulsating abdominal lump. It may also be used to check blood vessels before or after certain procedures or to monitor a known vascular condition.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images of the blood vessels are taken. An IV line is placed in your arm or hand to administer the contrast, and the scan usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, although timing varies by the area being examined.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the care team about prior contrast reactions, kidney disease, pregnancy, implanted medical devices, or other health conditions. These factors may affect the choice of contrast or how the examination is performed; the team will also tell you when to arrive and whether you can eat or drink beforehand.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal MRA may show narrowing, blockage, an aneurysm, an abnormal vessel wall, or an unusual pattern of blood flow. These findings can be associated with conditions affecting the heart, brain, kidneys, or peripheral arteries. The results should be interpreted by your clinician in combination with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
Short name
MRA with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is MRA the same as a regular MRI?
Why is intravenous contrast used?
Does MRA use radiation?
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