My MRI Report

[Patient_X]

I have often had headaches, but I've had one now for several months that varies in low intensity from a 3-4 achy feeling, especially on the posterior/left area, to a sharp, stabbing, incredibly painful 9-10 (out of 10) that seems to shoot from the back left side towards the right front temple.  I have had partial loss of conciousness several times since the non-stop headache began, including the temporary loss of vision (lasted ~ 10-20 seconds, sudden sweating in a cool non-stressful enviornemnt.

The MRI report reads as folows:

Indication: Questionable Signal Abnormaliry, left internal capsule

Technique: Sagittal T1, Axial T2, Axial FLAIR sequences were made with diffusion weighted images.

The initial study was performed on 10/15/07, and additional noncontrast imaging was requested in a high field unit b the interpreting radiologist for questionable signal abnormality of the left internal capsule.

Findings: There is no signal abnormaility seen in the internal capsule as questioned.  

There is a single smal focus of hyperintensity seen in the subcortical white matter in the left parietal lobe.  High convexity noted without edema.  This is a nonspecific focus.  No other abnormaility is identified.  

A single small subcortical focus of hyperintensity seen in the white matter, left parietal lobe high convexity.  This appears to be an incidental finding, most likely a small focus of gliosis.  The study is otherwise unremarkable with particular attention to the internal capsule as discussed above.

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Do any of the above findings match with the chronic headaches/LOC?  What is meant by the "high convexity noted without edema.  This is a nonspecific focus"


Thank you so much!  I have an appointment with a neurologist in 2 weeks - soonest appointment available.

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

Can you explain a bit further what you mean by "partial loss of consciousness"? How long do the headaches last? Was there anything that gave some relief from the headaches, such as sleeping it off? Do you have hypertension?

The symptoms you described are non-specific and can be caused by many conditions, including migraines, tension headache, hypertension, etc. However, the loss of consciousness is important as it may suggest a severe hypertensive disease, a cerebrovascular condition, or even, seizures.

The MRI findings, as you posted it, do not show any definite cause for concern. The finding of high convexity is also a non-specific finding and cannot suggest any specific neurological condition which would associate it with the symptoms.

Hope this answers your queries.