A New Frontier in the Detection of Neoplastic Diseases

High-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a cutting-edge tool in diagnostic imaging, enabling the identification of a wide range of pathologies, from oncological to inflammatory conditions, across multiple systems in the human body.

 What Is High-Field MRI, and Why Is It Considered High-Field?

We explore this topic with Dr. Armando Fusco, head of Diagnostic Imaging at Ars Medica.

MRI systems vary in their magnetic field intensity, which forms the basis of this imaging technique. High-field machines offer a significantly broader and more precise diagnostic spectrum than low-field machines. At Ars Medica, we utilize a tomograph with a 1.5-tesla magnet, classified as high-field. Systems operating at 3 tesla also fall into this category, while machines with lower magnetic field strength are deemed low-field.

 Can MRI Detect Every Disease?

• High-field MRI is capable of detecting a broad spectrum of pathological changes. Certain organs, such as the central nervous system and the prostate, benefit significantly from MRI over other imaging modalities. It is also particularly effective for characterizing specific liver and pancreatic conditions.
• High-field MRI plays a vital role in advanced cardiac diagnostics, offering unique capabilities, such as diagnosing myocarditis or myocardial storage diseases. While MRI excels in many areas, some organs, like the lungs, are better examined with more sensitive techniques such as CT scans.

Non-Ionizing Technology for Safer Imaging:

Unlike CT or X-rays, MRI does not use ionizing radiation, which can pose risks to cellular DNA. Instead, it employs magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses to generate images without causing harm to biological tissues. However, the process can produce loud noises, which we mitigate at Ars Medica by providing patients with specialized noise-reducing headphones. For those who experience claustrophobia inside the MRI gantry, we offer dedicated sedation services to ensure comfort.

Is MRI Safe?

High-field MRI uses electromagnetic waves that lack the energy to damage cellular DNA. As a result, it is considered safe and free from the biological risks associated with ionizing radiation.

The Role of MRI in Early Cancer Detection

MRI is a cornerstone for early oncological diagnosis. It excels in detecting pre-cancerous or early-stage tumors, such as prostate neoplasms as small as 4-5 millimeters. This early detection enables precise diagnosis and the development of effective, minimally invasive treatment plans.

High-field MRI also plays a critical role in breast cancer diagnosis, identifying multiple neoplastic foci within the breast more accurately than other imaging techniques. At Ars Medica, we specialize in studying neoplastic diseases in the nervous system, pancreas, liver, and female reproductive organs, such as ovarian cancer. The technology’s high-resolution imaging allows for detailed structural and dimensional characterization of lesions, surpassing the capabilities of other imaging modalities.

 Multidisciplinary Collaboration at Ars Medica

Our multidisciplinary teams, including urologists, neurologists, and oncology surgeons, collaborate to address complex neoplastic conditions. This ensures a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach tailored to each patient’s needs.

 Is Contrast Medium Always Necessary?

Contrast agents enhance MRI imaging by providing crucial information on tissue characterization and vascularization. This is particularly valuable for identifying and delineating lesions. While contrast is recommended for many diagnostic scenarios, it may not be suitable for patients with confirmed allergic reactions. In such cases, alternative strategies, including desensitization therapy, can be considered, or contrast-free MRI may be performed, acknowledging its diagnostic limitations.

Contrast agents are especially helpful in characterizing bone lesions, further extending MRI’s diagnostic reach.

High-field MRI is a powerful, non-invasive imaging technology that continues to push the boundaries of medical diagnostics, offering safer, more accurate, and earlier detection of a wide range of pathologies.