Thyroid Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Without Contrast
MRI creates detailed images of the thyroid and nearby neck structures without using an intravenous contrast agent.
["A thyroid MRI without contrast is a noninvasive imaging study used to evaluate the size, structure, and surrounding tissues of the thyroid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36536-1
- Short code
- MR Thyroid WO contr
- Synonyms
- MR Thyroid 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?
Thyroid magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, produces detailed pictures of the thyroid gland and nearby neck structures using magnetic fields and radio waves. In this study, no intravenous contrast dye is used.
Why might I need this test?
A thyroid MRI may be used to evaluate a thyroid nodule, gland enlargement, inflammation, or the relationship of thyroid disease to nearby tissues. It may also help clarify findings seen during another imaging test.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a movable table while an MRI scanner creates images of your neck. The scan is painless, but it can be noisy and may feel confining. A technologist will guide you and may ask you to remain still.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell the imaging staff if you have any implanted devices, such as a pacemaker, or if you have ever had a reaction to MRI contrast. Remove loose metal objects, jewelry, and hair accessories as instructed, and follow any fasting or medication instructions provided by your care team.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
MRI findings may show enlargement, nodules, inflammation, cysts, compression of nearby structures, or tissue that appears different from normal. These findings do not identify the cause by themselves and should be interpreted with your symptoms, examination, thyroid laboratory tests, ultrasound, and other clinical information. Your healthcare professional will explain the significance of your specific images.
Short name
Thyroid MRI without contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is a thyroid MRI without contrast the same as a thyroid ultrasound?
Will I receive contrast dye?
Does a thyroid MRI diagnose thyroid cancer by itself?
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