MEDICAL TEST HEALTH TERMS LEGAL GLOSSARY

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Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI): A test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to provide pictures of your head. In many cases an MRI provides information that cannot be obtained from an x-ray, ultrasound, or CT Scan. For this test, you are positioned in the MRI scanner to detect changes in the normal structure and characteristics of your head. The MRI can also detect tissue damage or disease, such as infection, inflammation, or a tumor. Information from an MRI scan can be saved and stored on a computer for further study. Photographs or films of selected views can also be made. In some cases, a contrast material may be used during the MRI scan to enhance the images of certain structures. The contrast material may help evaluate blood flow, detect some types of tumors, and locate areas of inflammation. An MRI is a safe test and provides valuable information, however it is more expensive than other image techniques, and it may not be available in all medical centers. 

Mammogram: A mammogram is an x-ray test of the breasts (mammary glands) used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump, and whether a lump is fluid-filled (a cyst) or a solid mass. A mammogram is done to help screen for or detect breast cancer. Many small tumors can be seen on a mammogram before they can be felt by a woman or her health professional. Cancer is most easily treated and cured when it is discovered in an early stage. Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer or reduce a woman's risk of developing cancer. However, regular mammograms can reduce a woman's risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting a tumor when it is more easily treated. Experts have different opinions regarding the number of mammograms a person should have.

Mental Health Assessment: An evaluation of your emotional functioning and your ability to think, reason, and remember (cognitive functioning). It involves an interview with a health professional and also may involve a physical examination of your nervous system, written or verbal tests, and laboratory tests (such as blood and urine tests). During the interview, the health professional assesses your appearance, mood, behavior, thinking, reasoning, memory, and ability to express yourself. The health professional also asks questions about your personal relationships.

Mononucleosis Tests: Blood tests that look for antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus that causes “mono.” The antibodies are made by the immune system to fight the infection. Mono tests include:

• Monospot Test: This quick screening test detects a recent mono infection. A sample of blood is placed on a microscope slide and mixed with other substances. If mono is present, the blood clumps (agglutinates). Monospot testing can usually detect antibodies 2 to 9 weeks after a person is infected. It generally is not used to diagnose mono that started more than 6 months earlier. 
• EBV Antibody Test: For this test, a sample of blood is mixed with a substance that attaches to antibodies against EBV. A series of tests can detect different types of antibodies to help determine whether you were infected recently or sometime in the past. Newer tests quickly identify EBV on genetic material other than blood.
  

DISCLAIMER: The information contained within this personal injury site is of a general nature and is not meant to be a restatement of any rules of law. Your use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should hire an attorney to obtain legal advice for your specific case. 
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