Pituitary MRI in Kyiv With and Without Contrast

Pituitary MRI is a targeted magnetic resonance examination of the sellar region performed using a dedicated thin-slice protocol. The examination helps assess the structure, size, contours, and stalk of the pituitary gland in detail, as well as its relationship with the optic nerves, blood vessels, and other structures of the brain.

At HBMedical, you can undergo a pituitary MRI in Kyiv without contrast or with intravenous contrast enhancement. The examination is performed on a Siemens Magnetom Sempra 1.5 Tesla scanner at 3 Oleksandra Dovzhenka Street, Kyiv, near Shuliavska metro station.

A pituitary MRI may be prescribed by an endocrinologist, neurologist, neurosurgeon, ophthalmologist, or another physician in cases of hormonal disorders, changes in visual fields, suspected adenoma, an incidentally detected lesion, or for follow-up after treatment.

You can book a pituitary MRI at HBMedical by phone or through the online form. When booking, please tell the administrator whether contrast enhancement is specified in your referral and whether you have results from previous examinations.

Pituitary MRI Price in Kyiv

• Pituitary MRI, thin slices, without contrast — UAH 3,160.
• Pituitary MRI with contrast — UAH 5,950.

The cost of a pituitary MRI depends on whether contrast enhancement is required. Contrast should not be used independently «just in case»: the optimal protocol is determined by the physician based on the symptoms, hormonal test results, and purpose of the examination.

You can confirm the current price and available appointment times when booking or check the section «MRI in Kyiv — Services and Prices».

What Is a Pituitary MRI?

The pituitary gland is a small endocrine gland located at the base of the brain in a bony depression called the sella turcica. It is involved in regulating the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, gonads, growth, metabolism, lactation, and other processes.

Because the pituitary gland is small, a dedicated MRI protocol is required for proper assessment. Thin layered images are obtained in several planes, allowing detailed visualization of the gland itself and the adjacent structures.

MRI of the sella turcica and pituitary gland does not use ionizing radiation. However, before the procedure it is necessary to check for implants, electronic medical devices, metal structures, and other possible restrictions.

What Does a Pituitary MRI Show?

MRI helps assess the anatomy of the pituitary gland and identify structural changes in the sellar region. Depending on the protocol, the examination may help detect:

• enlargement or reduction in the size of the pituitary gland;
• a pituitary adenoma or microadenoma;
• other space-occupying lesions of the sella turcica;
• cysts and congenital developmental features;
• changes in the pituitary stalk;
• signs of an inflammatory process;
• hemorrhage in the pituitary region;
• extension of a lesion beyond the sella turcica;
• the relationship between a lesion and the optic chiasm;
• involvement of the cavernous sinuses and adjacent blood vessels;
• postoperative changes;
• residual or recurrent lesions after treatment.

MRI shows anatomical changes but does not independently determine hormone levels or the functional activity of the pituitary gland. To establish a diagnosis, MRI findings are compared with hormonal test results, symptoms, ophthalmological assessment, and the endocrinologist’s conclusions.

Pituitary MRI With Contrast

A pituitary MRI with contrast involves the intravenous administration of a gadolinium-based agent. The contrast medium changes the signal intensity of tissues and helps the physician distinguish normal pituitary tissue from pathological areas more clearly.

Contrast enhancement is particularly often used:

• when a pituitary microadenoma is suspected;
• to clarify the borders of a detected lesion;
• in cases of elevated prolactin or other hormonal disorders;
• to assess the extent of an adenoma;
• after pituitary surgery;
• to monitor residual or recurrent tumour tissue;
• when non-contrast MRI results are inconclusive.

Small lesions may differ from normal pituitary tissue in the pattern and speed of contrast uptake. This is why, when a microadenoma is suspected, the physician often recommends a targeted examination with contrast enhancement.

Before a contrast-enhanced pituitary MRI, you must inform the staff about kidney disease, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and any previous reactions to contrast agents. If risk factors are present, a recent blood creatinine test may be required.

Can a Pituitary MRI Be Performed Without Contrast?

Yes, a pituitary MRI can be performed without contrast and may be sufficient in certain clinical situations. A non-contrast examination allows assessment of the size, shape, and general structure of the pituitary gland, as well as large lesions, cystic changes, and the anatomy of the sella turcica.

However, without contrast enhancement, a small microadenoma may be more difficult to distinguish from normal glandular tissue. Therefore, when a small hormonally active lesion is initially suspected, the physician may recommend a contrast-enhanced pituitary MRI.

In some cases, a non-contrast protocol is used for follow-up examinations or when administration of a contrast agent is undesirable. The final decision is made by the physician.

Pituitary Adenoma on MRI

A pituitary adenoma is a lesion that develops from the cells of the gland. Depending on size, adenomas are classified as microadenomas or larger adenomas. Some lesions may produce excessive amounts of hormones, while others may be hormonally inactive but affect surrounding structures.

On MRI, a pituitary adenoma may differ from normal glandular tissue in its structure, signal characteristics, and pattern of contrast enhancement. The radiologist also assesses:

• the exact size of the lesion;
• its location in the anterior or posterior part of the gland;
• its contours and internal structure;
• extension into the cavernous sinus;
• the distance to the optic chiasm;
• displacement of the pituitary stalk;
• the presence of a cystic component or hemorrhage;
• the condition after treatment.

The appearance of a lesion on MRI alone does not always make it possible to determine which hormones it produces. Laboratory tests and consultation with an endocrinologist are required for this purpose.

Can MRI Detect a Pituitary Microadenoma?

Targeted pituitary MRI with thin slices is the main imaging method when a microadenoma is suspected. Contrast enhancement can make a small lesion more visible and help distinguish it from normal glandular tissue.

However, the result depends on the size of the lesion, the scanning protocol, image quality, and individual anatomical features. If the MRI findings do not explain marked hormonal abnormalities, the endocrinologist determines the next steps.

Most Common Indications for Pituitary MRI

A physician may prescribe the examination if a pituitary disorder is suspected or after abnormalities are found in hormonal tests.

The most common indications for pituitary MRI include:

• elevated prolactin levels;
• menstrual cycle disorders;
• breast discharge outside the breastfeeding period;
• infertility;
• reduced libido or sexual dysfunction;
• signs of excess growth hormone;
• delayed or accelerated growth in children;
• signs of excessive cortisol production;
• suspected pituitary insufficiency;
• unexplained changes in thyroid function;
• visual field defects or reduced visual acuity;
• headache combined with hormonal or visual disturbances;
• an incidentally detected lesion of the sella turcica;
• follow-up of a known adenoma or cyst;
• monitoring after surgery, radiation therapy, or medication treatment.

The listed symptoms do not necessarily indicate a pituitary adenoma. They may occur in various endocrine, neurological, or ophthalmological conditions, so the scope of examination is determined by the physician.

MRI of the Pituitary Gland and Sella Turcica

The pituitary gland is located within the sella turcica, so the terms «pituitary MRI», «MRI of the sella turcica», and «MRI of the pituitary gland and sella turcica» are often used to refer to a similar targeted examination.

During the scan, the physician assesses not only the gland but also:

• the bony margins of the sella turcica within the capabilities of MRI;
• the pituitary stalk;
• the optic chiasm;
• the cavernous sinuses;
• the internal carotid arteries;
• the suprasellar and parasellar regions.

If the physician needs a detailed assessment of the bony structures, computed tomography may additionally be recommended.

Pituitary MRI and Brain MRI: What Is the Difference?

A standard brain MRI and a targeted pituitary MRI use different protocols. During a routine brain examination, the pituitary region is included in the scan area, but the slice thickness and sequence set may be insufficient to detect a small microadenoma.

Brain MRI is performed for a general assessment of brain tissue, the ventricular system, the effects of stroke, injuries, tumours, and other abnormalities.

Pituitary MRI is a targeted thin-slice examination of the sella turcica and pituitary gland.

MRI of the brain and pituitary gland may be prescribed as a combined examination if the physician needs to assess both areas using separate protocols.

If the referral specifies only a pituitary MRI, it should not be replaced independently with a standard brain MRI. When booking, state the exact wording used by the physician.

How to Prepare for a Pituitary MRI

Special preparation is usually not required for a pituitary MRI without contrast. You may follow your usual routine and continue taking regular medications unless your physician has advised otherwise.

Before the examination, it is recommended to:

• bring the physician’s referral;
• bring previous MRI or CT images and reports;
• bring hormonal test results and medical records;
• inform the staff about implanted devices and electronic medical equipment;
• bring documents confirming MRI compatibility of any implants;
• report pregnancy or the possibility of pregnancy;
• inform the staff in advance about claustrophobia;
• avoid cosmetics or products containing metallic particles around the head and eyes;
• remove jewellery, piercings, hearing aids, hairpins, and other metal objects.

Preparation for a Contrast-Enhanced Pituitary MRI

If contrast enhancement is planned, clarify the rules regarding food and drink when booking. Requirements may depend on the protocol and the patient’s condition.

You should also:

• report any kidney disease;
• report previous reactions to contrast agents;
• clarify whether a blood creatinine test is required;
• report pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• not stop regular medications without a physician’s recommendation.

How Is a Pituitary MRI Performed?

Before the procedure, the patient completes a safety questionnaire and leaves metal and electronic items outside the examination room.

1. Positioning in the scanner. The patient lies on a movable table, and the head is placed in a special coil and secured to reduce movement.
2. Scanning. The table moves into the MRI scanner. The device obtains a series of thin, layered images of the pituitary region.
3. Contrast enhancement. If a contrast-enhanced MRI has been prescribed, the agent is administered through an intravenous catheter, after which additional scan sequences are performed.
4. Reporting the results. The radiologist analyses the images and prepares a report.

During operation, the MRI scanner produces loud rhythmic sounds. The patient is provided with hearing protection and can communicate with the radiographer. It is important to remain still to obtain high-quality images.

How Long Does a Pituitary MRI Take?

The duration depends on the protocol, whether contrast enhancement is required, and the patient’s ability to remain still. A pituitary MRI usually takes about 20–40 minutes. A contrast-enhanced examination may take longer because of catheter placement, administration of the agent, and additional scan sequences.

It is recommended to confirm the approximate duration when booking.

Contraindications and Limitations

MRI is performed in a strong magnetic field, so it is important to provide complete information about medical devices and metal structures in the body before the procedure.

Be sure to inform the staff if you have:

• a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator;
• a cochlear implant;
• a neurostimulator;
• an insulin pump or glucose monitoring system;
• vascular clips;
• metal fragments, especially in the eye area;
• middle or inner ear implants;
• other electronic or metal medical devices;
• recent surgery;
• pregnancy;
• claustrophobia;
• an inability to remain still for an extended period.

The presence of an implant does not always prohibit MRI. Whether the examination can be performed depends on the device model, its MRI compatibility, and the conditions specified by the manufacturer.

What Does the Patient Receive After the Examination?

After the MRI is completed, the radiologist analyses the images and prepares a report. The patient receives:

• MR images of the pituitary region;
• a radiologist’s report;
• results for consultation with an endocrinologist, neurologist, neurosurgeon, or ophthalmologist.

At HBMedical, the report is usually prepared within 5–7 hours. In complex cases, the timeframe may vary. The MRI report describes the identified changes but does not replace a final clinical diagnosis.

Which Physician Should Review the Results?

After a pituitary MRI, the results should most often be shown to an endocrinologist. If necessary, the physician may prescribe additional hormonal tests, visual field testing, an ophthalmologist consultation, or a neurosurgical consultation.

You can book an endocrinologist consultation in Kyiv near Shuliavska at HBMedical.

Why Choose HBMedical for a Pituitary MRI?

• a targeted thin-slice protocol;
• pituitary MRI without contrast and with contrast enhancement;
• a Siemens Magnetom Sempra 1.5 Tesla scanner;
• image interpretation by a radiologist;
• the possibility of comparison with previous examinations;
• an endocrinologist consultation at the same medical centre;
• a convenient location near Shuliavska metro station;
• the diagnostic department is open daily;
• advance booking at a convenient time.

Where to Get a Pituitary MRI in Kyiv

You can undergo a pituitary MRI at HBMedical at 3 Oleksandra Dovzhenka Street, Kyiv, near Shuliavska metro station.

The location is convenient for patients from Shuliavka, KPI, Nyvky, Dorohozhychi, Lukianivka, and the Shevchenkivskyi, Solomianskyi, and Sviatoshynskyi districts of Kyiv.

When booking, it is advisable to provide:

• the exact name of the examination from the referral;
• whether contrast enhancement is required;
• whether previous MRI or CT examinations are available;
• whether any implants or medical devices are present;
• whether there is any kidney disease;
• whether there is claustrophobia;
• whether an endocrinologist consultation is needed.

Book a pituitary MRI at HBMedical to undergo a targeted examination in Kyiv near Shuliavska and receive a report for further consultation with your physician.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pituitary MRI?

It is a targeted magnetic resonance examination of the pituitary gland and the sellar region, performed with thin slices using a dedicated protocol.

What does a pituitary MRI show?

The examination helps assess the size and structure of the pituitary gland and identify adenomas, microadenomas, cysts, inflammatory, postoperative, and other structural changes.

How much does a pituitary MRI cost in Kyiv?

According to the current HBMedical price list, a pituitary MRI without contrast costs UAH 3,160, while an examination with contrast enhancement costs UAH 5,950. It is recommended to confirm the current price before booking.

When is a contrast-enhanced pituitary MRI needed?

Contrast enhancement is often recommended when a microadenoma or hormonally active lesion is suspected, to clarify tumour borders, or for follow-up after treatment.

Can a pituitary MRI be performed without contrast?

Yes. A non-contrast examination may be sufficient in certain situations, but small lesions may sometimes be visualized more clearly after administration of a contrast agent.

How should I prepare for a pituitary MRI?

Special preparation is usually not required for an examination without contrast. Before contrast administration, it is necessary to clarify dietary instructions, report kidney disease, and provide a creatinine test if required.

How long does a contrast-enhanced pituitary MRI take?

The procedure usually takes about 20–40 minutes. Contrast administration and additional sequences may increase the duration of the examination.

Can a pituitary microadenoma be seen on MRI?

Targeted thin-slice MRI is the main method used to detect a microadenoma. Contrast enhancement may improve the visibility of a small lesion.

Are pituitary MRI and brain MRI the same examination?

No. A separate targeted thin-slice protocol is used for the pituitary gland. A standard brain MRI is not always sufficient to assess a small microadenoma.

Is a referral required for a pituitary MRI?

You can clarify whether the examination can be performed without a referral when booking. A referral is advisable because it contains the clinical question and helps select the correct protocol.

When will the report be ready?

At HBMedical, the report is usually prepared within 5–7 hours. In complex cases, it may take longer.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace a medical consultation.