MRI Brain with Contrast – Cost, Side Effects​ & Centres in Delhi

An MRI Brain with Contrast is one of the most advanced imaging tests used to detect abnormalities inside the brain with greater clarity and precision. The contrast dye enhances the visibility of blood vessels, tissues, and lesions, helping radiologists identify conditions that a non-contrast MRI may miss.

If your doctor has recommended an MRI Brain with Contrast, this comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know — from the test purpose, preparation, procedure, accuracy, risks, cost, and how to book the scan easily through CareBox.

What is an MRI Brain with Contrast?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Brain with Contrast is a diagnostic imaging scan that uses a special contrast dye (usually gadolinium-based) to provide clearer and more detailed images of the brain. The contrast helps highlight:

• Blood vessels

• Tumors

• Inflammation

• Infection

• Demyelination

• Abnormal tissue growth

• Areas of previous bleeding

Doctors recommend this test when they need high-precision visualization of brain structures.

Why is MRI Brain with Contrast Needed?

A contrast-enhanced MRI is typically ordered when a doctor wants to detect or rule out serious neurological conditions. It is especially helpful when a non-contrast MRI is not enough.

Common reasons for the test include:

1. Brain Tumors

Contrast helps differentiate tumor types, detect small lesions, identify tumor borders, and check whether a tumor is spreading.

2. Stroke or TIA (Mini Stroke)

Contrast MRI helps assess the affected brain tissues and detect abnormalities in blood vessels.

3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

It helps identify active lesions and differentiate between new and old MS plaques.

4. Infections

Contrast MRI can detect infections such as:

• Brain abscess

• Meningitis

• Encephalitis

5. Vascular Abnormalities

Including:

• Aneurysms

• AVM (Arteriovenous malformation)

• Venous thrombosis

6. Inflammatory Conditions

Such as:

• Sarcoidosis

• Autoimmune encephalitis

7. Post-operative Imaging

To check healing, complications, or tumor recurrence after brain surgery.

8. Unexplained Symptoms

Your doctor may suggest an MRI Brain with Contrast if you have:

• Persistent headaches

• Vision problems

• Seizures

• Memory issues

• Loss of balance

• Behavioral changes

• Sudden neurological deficits

What Happens During MRI Brain with Contrast?

The procedure is simple, painless, and takes 30–45 minutes.

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Before the Scan

• You change into a hospital gown

• Remove metal objects (watch, earrings, belt, etc.)

• Share any medical conditions with the radiology team

2. IV Line Placement

An IV line is inserted to administer the contrast dye. This dye improves visibility of brain tissues.

3. Inside the MRI Machine

• You lie on a movable MRI table

• The table slides into the MRI scanner

• The machine makes tapping or humming sounds

• Earplugs or headphones are provided

4. Contrast Injection

• Gadolinium contrast dye is injected halfway through the scan

• The dye circulates through the bloodstream

• The final set of images are taken with contrast

5. After the Scan

• IV line is removed

• You can resume normal routine

• Drink plenty of water to flush out the dye

Is MRI Brain with Contrast Safe?

Yes, MRI with contrast is generally safe for most people. Gadolinium is well-tolerated, and allergic reactions are extremely rare.

Avoid the test if:

• You have severe kidney disease

• You are pregnant (unless absolutely necessary)

• You have a known allergy to gadolinium

Risks are minimal but may include:

• Mild headache

• Nausea

• Temporary dizziness

• Warm feeling after injection

These usually resolve within minutes.

How to Prepare for MRI Brain with Contrast

Preparation is simple:

1. Fasting

Most centres may ask you to avoid eating for 3–4 hours before the scan.

2. Hydration

Drink water to help flush the contrast later.

3. Inform the Radiologist If You Have:

• Kidney issues

• Metal implants

• Pacemaker

• Claustrophobia

• Pregnancy

4. Bring Documents

• Doctor’s prescription

• Previous MRI/CT reports

• Medical history

What Conditions Can MRI Brain with Contrast Detect?

An MRI Brain with Contrast can help diagnose or monitor:

• Brain Tumors (primary or metastatic)

• Stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic)

• Aneurysm

• AVM (Arteriovenous Malformation)

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Inflammation

• Infection

• Hydrocephalus

• Brain Cysts

• Brain Injury

• Vascular disorders

• Post-surgical changes

The enhanced clarity provided by contrast makes it one of the most reliable brain imaging tests.

MRI Brain with Contrast vs. MRI Brain Without Contrast

Doctors often recommend contrast MRI when detailed evaluation is required.

How Long Do MRI Brain with Contrast Results Take?

At most diagnostic centers, the report is ready within:

• 6–12 hours for routine cases

• 1–2 hours for emergency cases (stroke, trauma, etc.)

CareBox partner labs provide fast and accurate reporting by experienced radiologists.

MRI Brain with Contrast Cost in India (2025)

The cost depends on the city, MRI machine quality, and whether anesthesia is required.

Average Cost Range:

₹6,000 – ₹14,000

MRI Brain with Contrast Cost in Delhi:

₹6,000 – ₹12,000

CareBox offers up to 40–60% savings compared to hospital prices.

You can easily check prices near your location and choose an accredited centre within your budget.

MRI Brain with Contrast Scan in Delhi

If you are searching for “MRI Brain with Contrast Scan in Delhi”, CareBox helps you find:

• NABL/NABH accredited diagnostic centres

• Latest generation 1.5T & 3T MRI machines

• Expert radiologists

• Affordable pricing

• Same-day appointments

• Online booking & digital reports

You can compare:

• Scan cost

• Centre ratings

• Location

• Machine type

• Report turnaround time

MRI Brain with Contrast Near Me

CareBox simplifies your search by showing diagnostic centres closest to your location. You can filter by:

• Distance

• Price

• Accreditation

• Patient reviews

Whether you’re near Rohini, Dwarka, Lajpat Nagar, Saket, Noida, or Gurgaon — CareBox ensures you find the best MRI centre near you.

Benefits of MRI Brain with Contrast

1. High Accuracy

Provides enhanced visualization of tissues and blood vessels.

2. Early Detection

Identifies abnormalities at early stages when treatment is most effective.

3. Non-invasive & Safe

No radiation exposure, suitable for repeated imaging.

4. Helps in Treatment Planning

Crucial for surgery, radiotherapy, and long-term disease monitoring.

5. Better Outcome Prediction

Helps doctors understand disease progression.

Who Should Not Undergo MRI Brain with Contrast?

Inform your doctor if you have:

• Kidney disease

• Metallic implants

• Pacemaker

• Cochlear implant

• Claustrophobia

• Pregnancy

• Contrast allergy

The radiologist will evaluate whether the scan is safe for you.

How CareBox Helps You Book MRI Brain with Contrast Easily

CareBox is India’s trusted diagnostic booking platform offering:

• Transparent pricing

• Verified & accredited labs

• Massive discounts

• Instant booking

• Free doctor consultation (in select cases)

• Digital reports

Why Book Through CareBox?

• Avoid long hospital queues

• Choose from the best MRI centres

• Get genuine discounted prices

• Trusted by thousands of patients daily

Booking takes less than 1 minute.

Conclusion

An MRI Brain with Contrast is one of the most reliable imaging tests for detecting tumors, infections, inflammation, and vascular disorders. It provides detailed, high-quality images that cannot be achieved with a standard MRI scan.

If your doctor has suggested this test, you are in safe hands. CareBox makes it easy to book the scan at an affordable price at a trusted diagnostic centre near you.