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3T MRI induced post-traumatic stress disorder: a case report
1Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, S100A, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA. slakhan@gnif.org.
International Archives of Medicine
|October 12, 2012
Summary
A 3T MRI scan triggered severe anxiety and symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a patient. This case highlights a potential psychological risk associated with high-field MRI, distinct from known physical risks.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Radiology
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a widely used diagnostic tool.
- Known risks include heating, ferromagnetic object displacement, anxiety, claustrophobia, and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.
- The safety profile is generally excellent, but psychological reactions are less understood.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old man experienced acute agitation, fear, anxiety, tachypnea, tachycardia, palpitations, dizziness, and perceived bodily harm during a 3T whole spine MRI.
- The patient reported intense heat sensations and loud noises during the scan.
- The MRI was aborted, and subsequent imaging of the cervical and thoracic spine was unremarkable.
Findings:
- Following the MRI, the patient developed symptoms meeting DSM-IV-TR criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- These symptoms included increased arousal, re-experiencing the event, and persistent avoidance.
- This is the first reported case of MRI-induced PTSD.
Implications:
- High-magnetic field strength (3T) in MRI may contribute to the development of psychological distress and PTSD.
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for severe psychological reactions to MRI scans.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and prevalence of MRI-induced PTSD.
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