MRI MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a test that uses radio waves and magnetic fields instead of X rays. A computer helps translate the pattern of radio waves into very detailed pictures of parts of the body. MRI is sometimes more useful than other tests, like X rays or CT scans, because of the clearness of the images that are made. This is true with areas of the brain and spinal cord, blood vessels, bones, and some organs of the body. Certain tumors are regularly checked by MRI during and after treatment to determine the effectiveness of the treatment or to determine if there is a relapse. A person having an MRI lies on a table which is rolled into a machine that surrounds them on all sides, like a tube. There are open MRI machines available for people who are very anxious in a regular MRI machine. The test is painless. The machine makes quite a bit of noise, so your child might use ear plugs or a headset during the test. They must be able to lie completely still, and some children require sedation to do this. The test usually takes 1–2 hours. Often, a dye that will give better pictures will be injected into the vein. Because it uses magnets, MRI machines cannot have metal objects inside them. Your child will be asked to remove all metal objects such as jewelry and clothes with metal snaps or zippers. An MRI does not expose your child to any form of radiation.
Blood Tests Blood tests are done to monitor your child’s blood cells, body salts, and chemistries. Blood tests are very helpful in diagnosing medical problems and monitoring for side effects of treatment. A specially trained nurse or technician uses a needle to enter a vein and collect a blood sample in tubes that are then sent to a laboratory where they are examined closely. In some cases, a finger prick may give enough blood for a test. These tests are usually done at the time of diagnosis to rule out other diseases and to serve as a baseline for your child. Blood tests will be used throughout treatment to monitor for possible side effects and your child’s response to treatment. Blood tests such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) monitor changes in kidney function. Blood tests called hepatic function panel and bilirubin detect changes in liver function. Alkaline phosphate and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) levels may be high in the blood due to bone growth from a tumor. Complete Blood Count
Blood is made up of plasma (the liquid part of the blood) and cells floating in the plasma. There are three types of blood cells: white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. The white blood cells fight infection as part of the body’s immune system. The red blood cells carry oxygen to all cells of the body. The platelets stop bleeding by rushing to the site of an injury and forming a clot. A complete blood count , or CBC, is a blood test used to measure the amount and the health of these three types of cells. The CBC’s results is useful in diagnosing blood disorders that a child has inherited or developed. It also is used to diagnose cancers of the blood system, such as leukemia. A CBC may change due to things going on in the body, such as infections, nutritional problems, or as a response to some medications like chemotherapy. Blood Chemistry Tests A blood chemistry test measures the levels of electrolytes, like sodium and potassium, in the blood. These measurements can be very helpful by giving information about the health and function of the kidneys and liver. They also give the healthcare team information about a child’s nutritional status. Blood chemistry tests can diagnose diabetes (high blood sugar), tissue damage, and problems with metabolism.
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