Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Mediastinum Without Contrast
MRI creates detailed images of the chest area between the lungs without using intravenous contrast medication.
["This MRI examines structures in the middle of the chest without using IV contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80495-5
- Short code
- MR Mediastinum WO contr
- Synonyms
- MR Mediastinum WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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?
Mediastinum MRI is an imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the mediastinum, the area between the lungs that contains the heart and major blood vessels. This version is performed without contrast medication.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to investigate suspected abnormalities in the mediastinum, such as a mass, enlarged lymph nodes, or conditions involving the heart's major blood vessels. It may also help clarify findings seen on a chest X-ray or CT scan.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a narrow table inside an MRI scanner. The scanner makes loud knocking and clicking sounds, and you may be asked to hold still or follow breathing instructions. No intravenous contrast medication is given for this examination.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell the imaging team about any metal implants, pacemaker or other implanted devices, pregnancy possibility, or claustrophobia. Remove personal items that contain metal when instructed. Fasting is generally not required unless your care team specifically tells you otherwise.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal results may show a mass, enlarged lymph nodes, fluid, inflammation, or changes involving the heart or major blood vessels. The findings are interpreted together with your symptoms, medical history, and other imaging or laboratory tests, so an abnormal image does not by itself establish a specific diagnosis.
Short name
Mediastinum MRI without contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this MRI use contrast medication?
Is mediastinum MRI the same as a chest MRI?
What should I do if I feel anxious in the MRI scanner?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy