What is fMRI scan used for?

It may be used to examine the brain’s functional anatomy, (determine which parts of the brain are handling critical functions), evaluate the effects of stroke or other disease, or to guide brain treatment. fMRI may detect abnormalities within the brain that cannot be found with other imaging techniques.

Whats the difference between an MRI and a fMRI?

What’s the Difference Between MRI and FMRI? FMRI scans use the same basic principles of atomic physics as MRI scans, but MRI scans image anatomical structure whereas FMRI image metabolic function. Thus, the images generated by MRI scans are like three dimensional pictures of anatomic structure.

What diseases can fMRI detect?

It is hoped that successful application and analysis of fMRI in neurological disorders can be used to characterise and diagnose mental illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mild traumatic brain injury and addiction.

What type of scan shows brain activity?

A form of MRI known as functional MRI (fMRI) has emerged as the most prominent neuroimaging technology over the last two decades. fMRI tracks changes in blood flow and oxygen levels to indicate neural activity. When a particular brain area is more active, it consumes more oxygen, and blood flow increases.

Can you see mental illness in an MRI?

An MRI can serve as a useful diagnostic tool when it shows structural abnormalities or diagnosing a mental illness. An MRI may also reveal abnormalities in the way the brain uses energy, as well as the way it processes information.

Can you see mental illness in a brain scan?

Brain scans alone cannot be used to diagnose a mental disorder, such as autism, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. In some cases, a brain scan might be used to rule out other medical illnesses, such as a tumor, that could cause symptoms similar to a mental disorder, such as depression.

Can an MRI detect brain activity?

This structural information is often used to determine how certain brain areas compare with other normal brains to look for abnormal structures like a tumor. An MRI won’t show any brain activity though, so many doctors will recommend other brain imaging methods first.

Should I get my brain scanned?

It is important for the doctor to examine you or your child for a possible concussion or another injury. A blow to the head can cause a brain injury. The doctor may order a brain scan to make sure you do not have a fractured skull or a serious brain injury. But these scans are usually not needed.

Can a brain scan show bipolar?

New research revealed this month by the Westmead Institute for Medical Research shows that neurons located deep within the brain may offer a solution to the accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder and depression.

Why would a doctor order a brain scan?

Brain scans produce detailed images of the brain. They can be used to help doctors detect and diagnose conditions, such as tumours, causes of a stroke or vascular dementia.

Can a brain scan show anxiety?

Brain imaging can reveal unsuspected causes of your anxiety. Anxiety can be caused by many things, such as neurohormonal imbalances, post-traumatic stress syndrome, or head injuries. Brain scans can offer clues to potential root causes of your anxiety, which can help find the most effective treatment plan.

What can mimic bipolar?

Some non-psychiatric illnesses, such as thyroid disease, lupus, HIV, syphilis, and other infections, may have signs and symptoms that mimic those of bipolar disorder. This can pose further challenges in making a diagnosis and determining the treatment.