Cerebral MRI or MRI of the brain

What is a brain MRI?

Brain MRI, also known as MRI of the brain or MRI of the skull, is the most powerful imaging test for exploring the brain and its structures. It can detect abnormalities in brain organs and other parts of the human body, down to the smallest detail, and identify their causes. Thanks to a technology based on magnetic resonance imaging, this examination produces detailed images of the different areas of the brain, including white matter, gray matter, ventricles and blood vessels, notably arteries and veins.

For better visualization, a contrast medium, usually injected intravenously, can be used. This medium improves the detection of pathologies such as tumors, lesions or vascular malformations. Unlike X-rays, MRI relies on a powerful magnetic field and radio waves, offering a precise, non-invasive view of internal structures.

This examination provides a clear and comprehensive view of one of the body's most complex organs. In many cases, it offers crucial information that cannot be obtained with other imaging techniques, such as X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan. MRI is also used in medical imaging departments to analyze the interactions between different structures in the body.

What does a brain MRI show?

A brain MRI provides a detailed examination of blood flow and brain tissue health. It provides an in-depth view of the following structures:

• Brain This area is responsible for many essential functions such as movement, body temperature, touch, vision, hearing, reasoning, emotions and learning. The images obtained can be used to detect pathologies such as tumors, lesions or neurovascular anomalies.
• Brain stem MRI: Located in the center of the brain, the brainstem plays a key role in vital functions such as eye and mouth movements, consciousness, cardiac function and involuntary muscle movements. An MRI can detect abnormalities such as hemorrhages, tumors or neurodegenerative pathologies.
• Cerebellum : Located at the back of the brain, the cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements, maintains posture and balances the human body. Abnormalities in this region, such as lesions or malformations, can be clearly identified using MRI imaging.

Why order an MRI of the skull?

A brain MRI is prescribed to evaluate various symptoms or abnormalities that can affect the brain. It is particularly useful for determining whether the patient has suffered damage following a stroke or head injury. It is also used to diagnose sinus pathologies, or to evaluate the spine in the event of pain radiating from the cervical region.

It is used to examine symptoms such as :

• Vertigo, often caused by neurological abnormalities or vascular problems.
• Epileptic seizures, to identify brain areas affected by abnormal electrical discharges.
• Changes in thinking or behavior, often associated with neurodegenerative pathologies or tumors.
• Blurred vision or visual disturbances, which may indicate damage to the optic nerves or visual cortex.
• Chronic headaches, to detect underlying causes such as aneurysms, tumors or inflammation.
• Sudden memory loss, a potential indicator of diseases such as Alzheimer's or other neurological disorders.

These symptoms may also be linked to specific contraindications requiring in-depth exploration. MRI, thanks to its precision and ability to produce images in successive slices, is an essential tool for diagnosing these pathologies.