How do I prepare for an MRI for Leukemia

Preparing for an MRI for Leukemia

I'm glad you're asking about this—being prepared helps reduce anxiety and ensures you get the best quality images for your care team.

Why You Might Need an MRI

According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Acute Myeloid Leukemia, an MRI may be performed in specific situations, particularly to check if leukemia has spread to the brain or spinal cord. An MRI can show if the outer layer of the brain is swollen from leukemia (a condition called leukemic meningitis). Your doctor will have determined this is necessary for your particular situation.

Before Your MRI Appointment

Tell your care team about metal in your body:

• This is critical. MRI machines use very powerful magnets, so you must inform the technologist about ANY metal you have, including:
  • Pacemakers or implanted devices
  • Metal pins, plates, or screws from previous surgeries
  • Metallic tattoos or permanent makeup
  • Dental implants or braces
  • Shrapnel or metal fragments

Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing:

• Remove all jewelry, watches, and accessories
• Avoid clothing with metal zippers, snaps, or buttons
• You may be asked to change into a hospital gown

Arrive early:

• Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before your appointment
• Bring your insurance card and photo ID
• Bring a list of all medications and supplements you're taking

Eat and drink normally unless your care team tells you otherwise.

During Your MRI

What to expect:

• You'll lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine
• The machine makes loud knocking and buzzing sounds—this is normal
• The scan typically takes 30-60 minutes
• You'll be able to communicate with the technologist through an intercom

Two types of MRI machines: According to the NCCN Guidelines, there are two designs:

• Closed MRI: Has a capsule-like design where the magnet surrounds you. The space is small and enclosed.
• Open MRI: Has a magnetic top and bottom with openings on each end, allowing more space.

If you have claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces), tell your care team before your appointment. They may be able to schedule you for an open MRI or discuss other options.

Contrast material: Your MRI may or may not use contrast material—a substance injected through an IV to make images clearer. If contrast is used:

• It will be given through a vein in your arm
• It leaves your body immediately through urine after the test
• Tell your care team if you've had allergic reactions to contrast in the past—they can give you medicine to prevent problems

Important Questions to Ask Your Care Team

1. Why specifically do I need an MRI? Understanding the purpose helps you feel more prepared.
2. Will contrast be used? This affects preparation and what to expect.
3. How long will the scan take?
4. Should I take my regular medications before the appointment?
5. When will I get the results, and who will discuss them with me?
6. Do I have claustrophobia concerns? Ask about open MRI options if needed.

After Your MRI

• You can return to normal activities immediately
• If contrast was used, drink extra fluids to help flush it from your system
• A radiologist (imaging specialist) will review your images and send a report to your doctor
• Wait to discuss results with your care team—while reports may be available through your patient portal, your doctor will explain what the findings mean for your specific situation

Key Takeaway

MRI is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that helps your care team see detailed pictures of your brain and spinal cord. Being upfront about metal in your body and any anxiety about enclosed spaces ensures the best experience and most accurate results.

According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Acute Myeloid Leukemia, imaging tests can show areas where leukemia may have spread outside the bloodstream, which is important information for your treatment plan.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.