MRI Scan - Pitutary Test

The Pituitary Gland is about the size of a pea located in a hollow between the bones right behind the nose bridge. A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan is the most trusted way of detecting the abnormalities and problems in the pituitary region. An MRI for the pituitary is different from other scans of the skull and face area. It gives high-resolution pictures of the gland enabling the doctors to decipher the most critical conditions. The scan detects tumours and abnormal growths in the region and its surrounding area. Even the smallest lesions are identified through this scan.

There are certain special preparations required before conducting the scan. The doctor will require a complete medical history of the patient in order to study the problems in the past. You will also appear for a physical examination that will check your pulse rate, blood pressure, chest, etc. The hormone levels of various hormones are also examined via blood tests. You should also talk to your healthcare practitioner regarding your daily medication. You might need to avoid medicines that can interfere with the result. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing on the day of the scan. All kinds of jewellery and metal objects have to be removed.

• Detects the rarest of the tumours
• Projects the risk of suffering from cancer
• Examines the abnormalities in the surrounding regions
• Detects lesions and inflammations
• Detects severe issues such as Cushing's disease.

The scan procedure involves one normal scan of the pituitary region. Another scan process is conducted after a contrasting dye is injected into the area. This will help in distinguishing the abnormalities such as tumours or lesions. The scan is done by passing x-ray beams through your face in order to project an image of the same on the computer screen. There has to be no movement during this process so as to avoid blurred pictures.