Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Brain Study, Routine, With Intravenous Contrast
A routine MRI of the brain performed after receiving contrast through a vein to produce clearer images of brain structures and abnormalities.
["This scan uses a gadolinium-based contrast agent to help identify and characterize abnormalities in the brain."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36152-7
- Short code
- MR Brst-R W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MR Brst-R 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
- 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 an MRI of the brain that includes an intravenous contrast agent. MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures, while contrast can make certain tissues and abnormalities easier to see.
Why might I need this test?
A contrast-enhanced brain MRI may be used to investigate symptoms such as severe headache, seizures, weakness, vision or speech changes, confusion, or changes in mental function. It can help evaluate tumors, stroke, inflammation, infection, and other brain conditions.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a movable table inside the MRI scanner while the machine takes many pictures of your brain. If contrast is required, a healthcare professional will usually inject a gadolinium-based contrast agent into a vein before or during the scan.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the care team about contrast allergies, kidney disease, pregnancy, implanted medical devices, or metal in your body. You may be asked to remove jewelry and other metal objects, and you should tell the technologist if the scanner feels claustrophobic.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate conditions such as a tumor, stroke or another vascular problem, inflammation, infection, or a disorder affecting the protective covering of nerves. The results are interpreted together with your symptoms, examination, and other tests because an MRI finding does not always identify one specific cause.
Short name
Brain MRI with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a CT scan?
Does the contrast contain iodine?
Will I need a blood test before the scan?
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