A whole-body MR imaging has been proposed for evaluation of the presence of metastases and/or for the evaluation of primary cancers. Magnetic resonance imaging enables radiologists to accurately identify tumors missed by other diagnosis methods.

Full-body MRI focuses on the brain, heart, arteries and colon, as well as the surrounding tissue. The whole process takes about an hour.

MRI uses magnetic fields, not radiation, to create images of the body.

MRI can help determine if a cancer is limited to one area or if it is "multicentric" and involves more than one area.

An MRI exam causes no pain, and the magnetic fields produce no known tissue damage of any kind. Patient must remove any metallic belongings prior to MRI exam, including watches, jewelry, and items of clothing that have metallic threads or fasteners. For some MRI studies a contrast material called gadolinium may be injected into a vein to help interpret the exam. A gadolinium contrast agent does not contain iodine and therefore rarely causes an allergic reaction or other medical problem.

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