Paranasal Sinus MRI with Intravenous Contrast
An MRI that creates detailed images of the paranasal sinuses, using contrast injected into a vein to improve tissue visibility.
["This scan helps identify sinus inflammation, infection, polyps, masses, and other structural problems that may not be clear on other imaging."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24915-1
- Short code
- MR Sinuses W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MR Sinuses 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?
Paranasal sinus MRI with intravenous contrast is an imaging test that produces detailed pictures of the air-filled spaces behind the nose and around the face. Intravenous contrast is a medication injected into a vein to help certain tissues and abnormalities appear more clearly.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this scan for persistent or recurrent sinus symptoms, suspected infection or inflammation, nasal polyps, facial pain, or drainage. It may also be used to evaluate complications of sinus disease, assess nearby structures, or plan treatment or surgery.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images are taken. If contrast is used, it is usually injected through an intravenous line in your arm or hand, and the scan may include images taken before and after the injection. The scanner makes loud knocking and ringing sounds, and a technician will guide you through the procedure.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell your clinician about any contrast allergy, kidney disease, implanted devices, metal fragments in your body, and any possibility of pregnancy. Follow the facility's instructions and arrive with time to complete safety screening and, if needed, intravenous line placement.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include sinus inflammation, thickened lining, fluid or suspected infection, polyps, cysts, or other structural changes. MRI can also help assess the extent of disease or a mass and identify involvement of nearby tissues. The radiologist's interpretation is interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination, and other test results.
Short name
Sinus MRI with contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use radiation?
Is intravenous contrast always required?
How long does the scan take?
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