Question about a lumbar MRI

Question

I have been having dull persistent pain in my lower back and abdomen for a month. The pain also goes from my hip to my knee sometimes. I have also had a loss of appetite and sometimes feel nautious and tired. I am getting a lumbar MRI to see if it is a nerve issue. Does anyone know if a lumbar MRI will show if there are any ovarian cysts or anything like that. There is history of breast / colon cancer in my family.

Thanks!

Esjay · Answer

Orchid 81, I am experiencing back, abdomen, and hip to knee pains, probably similar to what you are.  My doctors have already ordered a pelvic ultrasound (external), an MRI, a CA-125, and a CT with contrast.  The MRI was strictly to rule out nerve or disk problems and showed no evidence of either; however, the other tests have all come up negative for any masses and the CA-125 was 4.  Most of the pains I am experiencing started to manifest themselves two months ago, but I the leg pains began well over a year.  Last September, my doctor ordered x-rays to look for arthritis but found just the smallest amount.

 I have an appointment in 27 hours with a gyn. oncologist because I am determined to find out what's going on.  Good luck to you - I hope you will pursue this further if the MRI does not show anything.  Isn't it crazy that finding out you have a bulging disc or degeneration would be good news?

PhillyBuc · Answer

No, it will not show any ovarian cysts.  I have bulging discs and facet joint degeneration in my L-4. L-5 and S-1 joints.  It is VERY common to have radiating pain to the hip and down to the knee.  I wouldn't stress too much until after the MRI.  I also have a history (personal) of BC and pre-cancerous colon polyps.  

Hope everything turns out well!  :)

Question about a lumbar MRI

You are reading content posted in the Ovarian Cancer Community