Does memory loss occur after MR imaging?
In four separate studies, the existence of specific memory loss after magnetic resonance (MR) imaging at 1.5 T was assessed by means of recognition and recall tests for faces, common objects, lexical items, and by digit span, in a pre-post paradigm. Although specific memory loss was demonstrated, it was shown that the loss was not due to the main magnetic field of the imager or to radio-frequency pulse sequences, but rather to probable psychological (not physical) factors. No gross or subtle memory changes could be attributed to MR imaging, because control groups showed similar patterns of memory loss.
Brockway
J P
JP
Department of Psychology, Davidson College, NC.
Bream
P R
PR
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology; D011939:Mental Recall / Q000502:physiology; D008875:Middle Aged