MRI reports acute intracranial process?

Question

I had an MRI done last week because I have regular severe headaches. I only seem to have the headaches on the weekend. On the report it states there is acute intracranial process, and congestion of the left nasal turbinates.

Anyone happen to know what either of these comments should mean? Everything else on the report seems to be normal. I see a neruologist next week.

Answer 1

Acute intracranial process is a term for many diagnoses.  It basically means there is pressure caused by (a number of things which the neurologist can futher define for you).  The congestion of the left nasal turbinates means that at the time of the MRI, you had congestion in that area.  The turbinates can become congested without you even realizing it.  If one is congested, the other will be clear. This process occurs off and on, self-regulating most of the time.  In cases of marked swelling, you will notice a definate "clog" on one side or the other and if severe, can lead to the classic "sinus infection".   There are so many more factors that a doctor will rely on in your diagnosis. Your general medical history, your demographics, the onset and duration of your headaches and all accompanying symptoms.   Hope this helps in general. :D