Understanding Unclear MRI Findings
Hello, I usually prefer observing rather than engaging in discussions, so please excuse me if my presentation isn’t perfect. I’m a **32-year-old female** who has dealt with chronic headaches and migraines since childhood. Thankfully, they are effectively managed with medication. Around nine months ago, my neurologist recommended an MRI since I hadn’t had one in years, and we wanted to rule out the possibility of any underlying conditions contributing to my chronic headaches. The results were largely normal, with the exception of one detail: "Incidental developmental venous anomaly in the left posterior frontal lobe." My neurologist reassured me that it was nothing serious, but due to my anxiety regarding health issues, she offered the option of undergoing a Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) for more insights. I completed the MRA yesterday and received the results this morning: **BRAIN:** No signs of acute intracranial problems. No indications of hemorrhage or tumors, nor any acute infarction detected. The ventricles appear normal in size and shape. The left inferior perirolandic developmental venous anomaly remains unchanged. There are small areas of encephalomalacia observed in the left temporal pole and the anterior inferior left frontal lobe, likely indicative of prior trauma, which remains stable. **SOFT TISSUES AND MARROW:** No significant findings. **IMPRESSION:** Encephalomalacia in the left temporal pole and anterior inferior left frontal lobe, showing patterns typical of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). **Normal MR angiogram of the head.** I’m feeling overwhelmed and perplexed... I’m not aware of having sustained any brain injuries, much less a TBI. How can there now be evidence of damage that aligns with such an injury? Shouldn't this have been visible in the MRI conducted nine months ago? I’m currently awaiting a call from my physician, but since it's Friday, they’ve informed me it might not happen until next week, leaving me quite anxious right now.
Answers (1)
8/1/2025, 6:31:10 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed with the clinical information and findings you've received from your MRI and MRA. The details can indeed be confusing, especially when they suggest a history of brain injury that you do not recall experiencing.
Main Points:
- The MRA results indicate that there is no current health threat, and the "evidence of encephalomalacia" refers to areas that may show prior changes to brain tissue, not necessarily an active injury.
- These findings can relate to events you may not have classified as significant injuries, such as concussions, falls, or even repeated minor impacts.
Explanation:
- Incidental Findings: The developmental venous anomaly noted in your results is a common and usually benign structure in the brain, and it typically does not cause symptoms or health issues.
- Encephalomalacia: This term refers to the softening or loss of brain tissue, which can happen following various types of trauma, sometimes even without a clear memory of an event. Other causes can include lack of oxygen or blood flow, but it’s important to remember that this is often stable and not indicative of ongoing problems.
- Nine-Month Interval: The MRI may not have captured changes if they occurred in between. MRI and MRA scans can sometimes present evolving findings, and changes are not always apparent in initial scans.
Next Steps:
- Stay Calm: While it's natural to feel anxious, remind yourself that your neurologist reassured you that these findings are not serious.
- Journaling: Keep a journal of your symptoms, including headaches and any other neurological experiences. This can help provide context for your doctor when you discuss the results.
- Questions for Your Doctor: Prepare questions for your physician regarding the potential causes of encephalomalacia and what these findings mean for you moving forward. Be sure to ask about any symptoms to monitor and the importance of follow-up.
- Self-Care: Focus on activities that soothe your anxiety, such as breathing exercises, gentle yoga, or mindfulness practices. Maintain a healthy routine with regular sleep and hydration, as these can help manage headache conditions.
Remember, waiting for further information can be tough, but it’s also an opportunity to gain clarity about your health. You're taking proactive steps by seeking understanding and preparing to engage with your physician meaningfully.
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