Conditions our MRI scans have found

Leiomyosarcoma isa rare, malignant (cancerous) tumor that arises from the smooth muscle lining the walls of the uterus. While the exact cause of a uterine leiomyosarcoma is unknown, associated risk factors include long-term use of tamoxifen (five years or more), history of pelvic radiation, and inherited conditions (e.g. childhood retinoblastoma)

Lipomas are the most common type of fat-containing, benign (non-cancerous) growths and demonstrate a characteristic appearance on MRI. The cause is not fully understood, but there is a genetic factor as they typically run in families. Usually lipomas do not cause symptoms, but can become painful if large and pressing on nearby nerves.

Joint effusion refers to a condition in which excess fluid accumulates in or around a joint. The condition is most often caused by infection, injury, or arthritis. Symptoms, if present, include swelling, redness, warmth, pain and stiffness.

A lacunar stroke (infarct) is when blood flow going to the small arteries deep inside the brain become blocked. The major risk factor for getting lacunar strokes is chronic high blood pressure, which can cause the small arteries to narrow over time; other modifiable risk factors include poor cholesterol levels, diabetes and smoking.If there is a new stroke, think “FAST” - Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time is of the essence - call 911. Treatment is focused on restoring blood flow to the brain.

The heart has 4 main chambers - 2 atria, one that receives blood from the body and another from the lungs, and 2 ventricles, one which pumps blood to the body and the other to the lungs. The left ventricle appears enlarged (hypertrophy). Causes of left ventricle enlargement include: “normal” athlete’s heart, high blood pressure, aortic valve stenosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Thoracic endometriosis is a rare condition that happens when endometriosis patches grow on or around the lungs. This can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, and in some cases, a collapsed lung.