Can MRI Of Brain Detect Subarachnoid Hemorrhage?

Posted on Fri, 24 Oct 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 Answered on

Mon, 17 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Would a MRA Of the Brain show the medical condition known as subarachnoid hemorrhage

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for this query.

MRA would be able to show a subarachnoid hemorrhage if it exists. However, the best test for this is CT scan or MRI for convenience and cost. MRA is reserved mostly for viewing the blood vessels as it requires injecting a contrast material that would light up the blood vessels specifically.

I hope this addresses your query fully. I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (3 minutes later)

Is the MRA as effective as the other Tests that are available besides the costs on accuracy and Clinical Results ?

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
MRA is superior but no added gain price/riisk!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

MRA is a superior test to MRI and CT scan but the added risk and money spent is of no added value in diagnosing a sub arachnoid hemorrhage. MRA cannot be asked solely for this purpose.

I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (14 minutes later)

I had a MRA iof the Brain, I just wanted to make sure That The CT was not the better choice in diagnosing subarachnoid hemorrhage as far as tests are concerned Thanks again

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
That's understood!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the details.

You are fine and there should be no reasons for further fears as regarding the quality of the test that was done. I wish you well and feel free to talk to us when next you have any health worries.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E