Whole body MRI is not very sensitive for small lung nodules. Early lung cancer (especially nodules <5-8 mm) is poorly detected. It is recommended to schedule a chest CT. For high-risk patients, a low-dose CT for lung screening is recommended.
Whole body MRI does not visualize the inner lining of the colon well or small polyps, which is where most colon cancers start. It is recommended to schedule a colonoscopy for this.
Whole body MRI does not provide detailed evaluation of the heart and does not evaluate coronary arteries well and can miss coronary artery disease, coronary plaques, and coronary calcification. It is recommended to schedule a CT coronary calcium scoring and/or CT coronary angiography.
Although MRI can detect significant tumors, whole body MRI is not optimized for prostate evaluation and can miss small prostate cancer lesions and low-volume tumors. It is recommended to schedule a urologic evaluation (exam and PSA) and dedicated multiparametric prostate MRI.
Whole body MRI is not the same as a dedicated breast MRI and can miss small ductal lesions and early breast cancer. It is recommended to schedule a mammography, dedicated breast MRI, or ultrasound for high-risk patients.
MRI is poor at detecting calcifications and can miss small kidney stones and vascular calcification. It is recommended to schedule a CT.
MRI is not effective at detecting small tumors <3-5 mm. Resolution limits mean whole body MRI may miss early metastatic disease, micro-tumors in organs, and early lymph node involvement. Microscopic disease can be initially not seen which is why annual screening recommended.
Our whole body MRI screen does not include the arms and lower legs. Although, uncommon, conditions in these areas would be missed.
Our whole body MRI screen is not optimized to thoroughly evaluate the joints of the musculoskeletal system (shoulder, hip, knee, etc.) as the test is not designed for detailed evaluation of the cartilage, menisci, ligaments, or labrum.
The skin is best assessed through direct physician examination; whole body MRI should not be considered a primary screening modality for the skin.
