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Magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) of the head is a standard procedure undertaken to see whether there are metastases in the brain. The fact that your treating doctor gives you this test does not mean that s/he considers that you have any brain metastases. During an MRT, which is similar to the PET procedure, you will be placed inside a tube. There, a single picture is taken of your head – but not with x-rays or radioactivity. Instead, only measurements of the natural presence of magnetism are taken. This magnetism varies between tissues and therefore makes diseased tissue more visible than is the case with other techniques.  In addition, potential adverse effects caused by x-rays or radioactive contrast agents is ruled out.  The only side effect  is a general feeling of discomfort experienced by some people whilst inside the ‘tube’.  However, this is also unavoidable in the case of a CT or a PET and hence considered justified.

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