A Pituitary Gland MRI allows doctors to take a closer look at the pituitary gland, the spine, and the brain — and is typically used to check for tumours or masses. It is one of the best ways to reach an accurate diagnosis, catch any tumours early, and ensure you receive the care you need.
A Pituitary Gland MRI works like other MRI scans but focuses specifically on the pituitary gland, spinal cord, and brain. A magnetic field and radio waves are used to take detailed images, which are transferred to a computer for your doctor to analyse and provide a diagnosis.
The scan involves lying inside the MRI scanner — a long tube-like machine — for between 30 and 60 minutes. Your pituitary stalk, posterior pituitary, and pituitary fossa can all be assessed during the scan, allowing your doctor to check for normal pituitary tissue and any signs of pituitary tumours.
A Pituitary Gland MRI is usually recommended to diagnose or assess pituitary tumours or other lesions. Common reasons include: to detect and diagnose pituitary tumours; to identify masses and their impact on nearby soft tissue; to evaluate hormonal imbalances, assessing excessive or decreased levels of pituitary hormones; and to follow up on incidentalomas.
If a tumour is found, a Pituitary Gland MRI may be recommended on an ongoing basis so your doctor can monitor its growth and impact on surrounding tissue and organs. As MRIs are safe and radiation-free, there is no cause for concern about attending multiple scans.
You can eat, drink, and take your medications as normal before a Pituitary Gland MRI. There is minimal disruption to your day and very little preparation involved.
Before your scan, you will be given a hospital gown to change into and space to store your clothes and valuables. We recommend bringing as little with you as possible. All jewellery, piercings, and other metal must be removed before the scan — metal can heat up, move, and cause distortion to the images. Hip and knee replacements generally do not cause issues, but pacemakers and devices with long wires can. Inform your doctor of any metal in your body before the scan.
A contrast dye is sometimes used for a Pituitary Gland MRI, administered via an IV before the scan begins. You may experience some minor discomfort from the IV. Let your doctor know if you have had a previous allergic reaction to contrast dye so they can advise on how to proceed. The dye makes soft tissue and vessels more visible, helping to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
If you experience claustrophobia or anxiety about the scan, let your doctor know beforehand — a mild sedative may be prescribed, in which case you will need someone to drive you home.
Once changed and with all metal removed, you will lie on an exam table outside the MRI scanner — typically on your back, though your doctor may ask you to adopt a specific position. Remaining still throughout the scan is important to prevent the images from blurring.
The table slides into the scanner and the scan begins. The machine produces loud humming and clunking sounds — this is completely normal. Headphones or earphones will be provided, and the technician can speak to you through a microphone and speaker throughout the process to guide and reassure you.
The scan lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, during which images of your pituitary gland are sent to the computer for analysis.
After the scan, very little aftercare is required and most patients can leave immediately. You can return to work, school, or your usual activities straight away. If a sedative was administered, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home.
Results will be provided either by phone or at a follow-up appointment, where your treatment plan will be discussed and any questions answered. Results are turned around as quickly as possible, though during busy periods this may take up to two weeks.
Accurate diagnosis
MRIs provide an accurate diagnosis of pituitary gland issues, including the size and location of tumours and any solid or cystic lesions, helping you access the right treatment plan.
Shows relationship with surrounding structures
MRIs can reveal how the pituitary gland interacts with surrounding tissue, helping to detect small changes and inform an effective treatment plan.
No radiation exposure
MRIs do not use radiation, making them a safe option for most patients.
Supports surgical planning and monitoring
MRIs help monitor changes before and after surgery and can assist in accurately planning procedures to remove tumours or lesions.
Evaluates endocrine diseases
MRIs help assess endocrine conditions, ensuring you have access to the most appropriate treatment plan.
There are very few risks associated with a Pituitary Gland MRI. Key considerations include: MRIs are not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy unless the need outweighs the potential risks; metal in the body can pose risks in the MRI environment, though scanning is often still possible with appropriate precautions; some patients may experience anxiety or claustrophobia during the scan; and the insertion of an IV for contrast dye may cause minor discomfort.
Contrast dye is not always required for a Pituitary Gland MRI. While it does make it easier to see vessels and identify abnormalities, it is not always necessary. If you have needed contrast dye for a previous MRI, you may need it again — this will be discussed with you before the scan takes place.
Yes — you can eat and drink as normal before your Pituitary Gland MRI, and take all usual medications. This makes it easy to fit the scan into your daily routine with minimal disruption.
Yes — MRIs are considered a very safe procedure. There is no radiation or harmful chemicals involved, and any contrast dye administered is safe for use. All potential risks will be discussed with you before the scan, and any questions you have will be answered beforehand.