Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and soft tissues inside the body. It helps healthcare providers diagnose a wide range of conditions without using ionizing radiation. Receiving an MRI report indicating “abnormal findings” can be concerning, though this term does not always signify a severe condition.
Understanding What “Abnormal” Means
In an MRI report, “abnormal” means a structure or signal deviates from what is typically observed in healthy tissue. This indicates something different that warrants further review. Radiologists interpret these scans and describe their observations in a written report.
Your doctor will then explain these findings. Understanding them requires “clinical correlation,” meaning the MRI results must be considered alongside your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. An isolated finding might have little significance without the full clinical picture.
Common Findings and Their Significance
MRI scans can reveal various types of deviations.
Inflammation or Edema
This is swelling in tissues, often associated with conditions like arthritis, infections, or acute injuries. These findings suggest the body’s natural response to irritation or damage.
Degenerative Changes
These are frequent findings, representing typical wear and tear over time, particularly in joints and the spine. Examples include disc degeneration in the back, where cushioning discs show signs of drying out or thinning. Another example is osteoarthritis, involving cartilage breakdown in joints. These changes are often age-related and can cause chronic discomfort.
Masses or Lesions
These refer to abnormal growths or areas of tissue that appear different from surrounding structures. They can range from benign formations like cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to tumors, which may be benign or malignant. Further investigation, often involving additional imaging or a biopsy, is usually necessary to determine their exact nature.
Traumatic Injuries
Fractures, ligament tears, or muscle damage are clearly visible on MRI. These findings directly explain acute pain or loss of function following an injury.
Vascular Abnormalities
These involve blood vessels and can also be detected. Examples include aneurysms (bulges in a vessel wall) or blockages that restrict blood flow.
Incidental Findings
Sometimes, an MRI may reveal incidental findings. These are benign anomalies discovered by chance, unrelated to the reason the scan was performed. They might include small, harmless cysts or minor anatomical variations that do not require treatment. Your doctor will differentiate between significant and incidental findings.
Navigating Next Steps
After receiving an MRI report with abnormal findings, schedule a consultation with your physician or a specialist. Your doctor will discuss the MRI results, explaining what the findings mean in relation to your specific symptoms and overall medical history. This integrated approach helps establish a comprehensive understanding of your condition.
Based on the MRI findings and your clinical presentation, your doctor may recommend further evaluation. This could involve additional diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample. Follow-up imaging, like another MRI or a different type of scan, might be suggested to monitor a finding or gain more detailed information.
Once a definitive diagnosis is established, various treatment options can be considered to manage your condition. These might include medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgical intervention. For certain benign or stable conditions, a “watchful waiting” approach, where the condition is monitored without immediate treatment, may be recommended.
It is acceptable to seek a second medical opinion if you have concerns about your diagnosis or treatment plan. Consulting another healthcare provider can provide additional perspectives and ensure you feel confident and informed about your healthcare decisions.