MRI for lymph node identification - Lymphomas Message Board

sugaragus · 03-28-2005, 11:06 AM

Can an MRI-cervical spine show if I have enlarged lymphnodes in my neck. About a year ago, a chest CAT scan showed prominent enlarged medistinal lymphnodes. The DR. immediately suspected Lymphoma. They did another CT scan 2 months later and it showed the nodes were stable. Since they were stable, my doctor said I do not have Lymphoma. I assume stable meant, not bigger, but not smaller. About 2 months ago I had a Cervical Spine MRI done that showed my neck/spine was good. I'm not sure if that also rules out Lymphoma or if they can even see the lypmh nodes in my neck from that scan. Please let me know what you think. Thanks,

Marimac · 03-28-2005, 12:04 PM

Generally speaking a soft tissue CAT SCAN does identify lymphnode better than MRI. But there are exceptions. Combination cat and pet does the best job.

sugaragus · 03-28-2005, 12:08 PM

I appreciate your answers. I was wondering, Since they did the MRI of the neck and not a new Ct Scan, is that enough to rule out lymphnode swelling in the neck area. Or should I push the Dr for a soft tissue scan. I do not think they will do one though because of the price. When I looked at the cervical spine MRI, i could not see lymphnodes, although I don't know what to look for.
I guess my question is, " Does the cervical spine show neck nodes or not?" Sorry about the long letter but it's hard to write exactly what I'm trying to find out. Thank you so much for your help.

Marimac · 03-28-2005, 12:29 PM

Generally, the reason they order an MRI is so that they can slice through the various dimensions of the area they are filming in order to detect any abnormalities that are not seen in two dimensions. Although the person looking at the MRI images maybe able to see, abnormalities, they tend to report on what is asked about on the Image ordered. If a Cervical spine is ordered, they will not refer to the shoulders or the jaw area, unless they call the doctor back and the doctor orders additional views. In the US it is done due to the way insurance is billed. Since you were referring to the cost of the imaging in your first post, my guess is that you can not afford a full body scan which would highlight anything anywhere and would cost upwards $3,000.00+

rIcHrD · 03-30-2005, 10:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sugaragus

I appreciate your answers. I was wondering, Since they did the MRI of the neck and not a new Ct Scan, is that enough to rule out lymphnode swelling in the neck area. Or should I push the Dr for a soft tissue scan. I do not think they will do one though because of the price. When I looked at the cervical spine MRI, i could not see lymphnodes, although I don't know what to look for.
I guess my question is, " Does the cervical spine show neck nodes or not?" Sorry about the long letter but it's hard to write exactly what I'm trying to find out. Thank you so much for your help.

Yes, you would be able to see cervical lymph nodes, provided the contrast is right and you have the right eye for it.