Diagnosing Mesothelioma: MRIs Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
is one of several imaging techniques that doctors use to detect,
stage and evaluate the progression of mesothelioma. These non-
invasive scans use magnets and radio waves to help doctors
visualize a patient’s organs, tissues, bones and tumors. Many
radiologists consider MRIs ideal for viewing the anatomical
structures of the chest and abdomen – including the pleura and
peritoneum, where mesothelioma tumors most commonly develop. The
first commercial MRI units emerged in the 1980s. Since then, the
technology has advanced considerably. Modern MRI units use
superconductor magnets and coils to produce a constant magnetic
field, as well as radiofrequency energy to measure signals from
the nuclei of hydrogen atoms inside the body. Computers inside
the scanner register these signals and turn them into images.
Most modern units also include a shield, which prevents the
scanner from picking up interference from outside signals
sources like televisions and r