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MRI of the Skull Base Without Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the skull base that evaluates the brain, bones, nerves, and nearby blood vessels without injected contrast.

Quick summary

["This scan provides detailed images of the skull base and nearby structures without the use of contrast dye."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48687-8
Short code
MR Skull.base WO contr
Synonyms
MR Skull.base WO contr
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?

Skull base MRI is an imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the base of the skull and nearby structures. It may include portions of the brain, cranial nerves, blood vessels, sinuses, and bones. No contrast dye is injected for this version of the test.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this scan to investigate symptoms such as headache, vision or hearing changes, facial weakness, numbness, dizziness, or trouble with balance. It can also help evaluate a mass, inflammation, infection, injury, or other structural problem near the skull base.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table that moves into a large MRI scanner. The scanner makes loud knocking or clicking sounds, and you may be asked to remain still. The scan usually does not require sedation, although special arrangements may be made for some patients.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the staff about any implanted medical devices, metal in your body, pregnancy, claustrophobia, or inability to lie still. Because no contrast is used, there is typically no need to stop eating or drinking unless your clinician gives different instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal findings may indicate a mass, inflammation, infection, injury, compression of a nerve or blood vessel, or an abnormality in the bones or nearby sinuses. The significance depends on the specific images and your symptoms and should be interpreted by your clinician in the context of your medical history.

Short name

Skull Base MRI Without Contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this test use contrast dye?
No. The “without contrast” designation means that no gadolinium-based contrast is injected during the scan, although some MRI centers use contrast for other parts of a larger MRI examination.
Is a skull base MRI painful?
The scan itself is generally painless, but the scanner is noisy and the enclosed space may feel uncomfortable or claustrophobic. Tell the staff if you have anxiety or difficulty lying still.
How soon will the results be available?
Timing varies by the imaging center and ordering clinician. Your care team will explain when the report and any follow-up recommendations will be available.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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