Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Chest With Intravenous Contrast
A chest MRI uses a strong magnetic field and injected contrast material to produce detailed images of the chest and surrounding structures.
["This imaging test provides detailed views of chest tissues and may help identify abnormalities that are not clearly visible on other scans."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36156-8
- Short code
- MR Chest W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MR Chest 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?
A chest MRI with intravenous contrast uses magnetic fields and a gadolinium-based contrast material injected into a vein to create detailed images of the lungs, chest wall, heart, blood vessels, and nearby structures.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to evaluate suspected masses, infection or inflammation, blood vessel problems, lymph nodes, or abnormalities involving the heart, lungs, or chest wall.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images are taken. The scan may last about 30 to 60 minutes, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly or remain still during certain images.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell your care team about prior contrast reactions, kidney disease, pregnancy, implanted medical devices, metal fragments, or claustrophobia. You may need kidney function testing before contrast is given and should follow the facility's instructions about eating, drinking, and taking medicines.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate a mass, infection or inflammation, a blood vessel abnormality, enlarged lymph nodes, or another condition affecting the chest. Results should be interpreted by your clinician in combination with your symptoms, examination, and other tests because MRI findings do not always identify the exact cause by themselves.
Short name
Chest MRI with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is a chest MRI with contrast the same as a CT scan?
What is intravenous contrast used for?
Will I need a blood test before this 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