MR Spectroscopy What is Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy? Using a highly calibrated advanced high field MRI scanner, the original applications of Nuclear Magnetic resonance can now be combined with the spectacular image quality of multiplanar MRI scan in the brain. An abnormal area of brain can be further assesed for a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectrograph and relative levels of choline and n-acetyl acetate can be determined. What patients benefit from this test? Patients with abnormal lesions identified on brain MRI. The spectrographs of infection appear different from tumor, thus this tool can be useful to identify those patients who have brain abscess rather than a ring enhancing lesion. Similarly, the etent of tumor into surrounding edemaous tisue can also be determined more accurately theough use of Spectroscopy. What should I expect after the procedure? After the 60 minute test, you can get dressed and immediately return to normal activity. There are no lingering side effects from MRI scanning. Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy is available at the following location: Seton Medical Center (San Mateo County)