Britannica Sources used in this answer

How are MRI scans used in cancer diagnosis?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Precancerous growth in a human colon — cancer View through an endoscope of a polyp, a benign precancerous growth projecting from the inner lining of the colon.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive, radiation-free diagnostic tool used to visualize internal body structures by measuring the magnetic properties of hydrogen nuclei in water and lipids. In the context of cancer, MRI is highly valued for its ability to provide detailed, high-contrast images that can rapidly and vividly reveal the precise extent of tumours.12

The technology is particularly effective for imaging soft tissues, including organs such as the brain, pancreas, breast, and pelvic organs. By utilizing advanced computer technologies, radiologists can construct three-dimensional images or holograms from digital cross-sections, which are useful for locating lesions with high precision.12

Additionally, a related technique called magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) uses the same machinery to measure the concentration of specific chemicals in tissues. MRS is used to detect metabolic changes associated with cancers of the cervix, pancreas, and prostate, providing valuable insights into the disease's nature and its response to treatment.3