What Does a Full Body MRI Detect? (And What Can Be Found)

Very small tumors can be identified as well as vascular anomalies that are potentially life threatening. Findings of multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases can be elucidated and often treatment can be initiated. Previous strokes can be identified and preventative measures taken to avoid another stroke.

The thyroid gland will be evaluated for enlargement, tumors, cysts, and goiter. Full evaluation for potentially malignant lymph nodes such as those in Hodgkin’s Disease which are considered fully treatable if detected in early stages. Evaluation of the arterial system of the neck can help determine stroke risk.

Screening of both armpits for lymph nodes. Reviewing for cardiac enlargement and lung abnormalities. Tumors of lungs, esophagus, or ribs. Thoracic aneurysms which are extremely dangerous for potential rupture. 

Although breasts are scanned, this is not a dedicated breast MRI (a dedicated breast MRI is a very different test) and is limited for evaluation of breasts. Screenings do not replace a mammogram.

MRI does not image the heart for coronary artery disease and cannot evaluate the really small architecture of the lung because of the motion that occurs with breathing. These are both done with CT scanning, which is not part of this screening. However, MRI will detect abnormalities of the hilum which is the area behind the heart where tumors or lymph node enlargement can be seen. Above the heart is an area called the mediastinum. This area is evaluated well. It is a common place for a malignancy to begin.  

Tumors of all the abdominal organs as well as liver disease. Spleen, pancreas, kidneys, stomach, adrenal glands, and intestinal tract are evaluated for tumor or disease.

MRI is limited for the bowel and does not replace a colonoscopy or endoscopy. A screening cannot evaluate lining of the bowel, but can identify masses usually greater than one centimeter. Wall mass thickening or smaller structures can be hidden by non-distended bowel. 

Female pelvis is examined for tumors of the ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes. Tumors can be cancerous or benign and MRI is usually able to distinguish with additional study. Men have the prostate, seminal vesicles, and testicular examined. Both sexes undergo bladder evaluation.

Complete spine can be examined for cord abnormalities, multiple sclerosis, disc herniation, tumors, arthritis, spondylolisthesis, and spondylolysis.