Scan Types / MRI Pituitary Gland Scan
MRI Pituitary Gland Scan
An MRI of the pituitary gland provides highly focused imaging of the pituitary, hypothalamus, optic chiasm, and surrounding brain structures. It is primarily used to detect tumors, hormonal imbalances, and visual pathway compression due to pituitary enlargement or lesions.
What is an MRI pituitary scan?
The pituitary gland is a small but critical hormone-regulating gland located at the base of the brain.
A pituitary MRI uses fine, thin-slice imaging to capture:
- The anterior and posterior pituitary lobes
- Pituitary stalk (infundibulum)
- Hypothalamic region
- Optic nerves and optic chiasm
This is the preferred imaging for detecting pituitary adenomas, both microadenomas (<10mm) and macroadenomas (≥10mm).
Why consider a private MRI scan for the pituitary gland?
Pituitary tumors can cause hormone imbalances or compress nearby structures — such as the optic nerves — leading to vision loss or fatigue. MRI offers precise diagnosis and monitoring.
Private scan benefits include:
- Quick appointments — no waiting lists
- Accurate diagnosis of hormone-producing or compressive tumors
- Essential for endocrinology and ophthalmology referrals
- Consultant radiologist reporting in 3 working days
Symptoms that may warrant a pituitary MRI
You may be referred for this scan if experiencing:
- Headaches with visual changes (e.g., tunnel vision)
- Irregular periods, infertility, or lactation (non-breastfeeding)
- Sudden weight changes or fatigue
- Unusual facial or body growth (acromegaly)
- Galactorrhea (milk production without pregnancy)
- Suspected Cushing’s or Addison’s disease
- Follow-up of known pituitary adenoma
What can a pituitary MRI detect?
MRI pituitary scans are excellent for:
- Pituitary adenomas (micro and macro)
- Cysts or Rathke’s cleft cysts
- Craniopharyngiomas or other sellar masses
- Empty sella syndrome
- Optic chiasm compression
- Inflammation or hypophysitis
- Post-surgical changes or recurrence
Preparing for your pituitary MRI
Before the scan:
- Remove all metallic accessories (earrings, glasses, etc.)
- Bring endocrinology letters or hormone test results
- You may eat, drink, and take medications unless instructed otherwise
- Bring any previous imaging or visual field test results
Please notify the team if you have:
- You have metal in your head, face, or eyes
- You wear a pacemaker
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- You experience anxiety or claustrophobia
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Pricing for a private pituitary MRI scan
Our transparent self-pay pricing options:
Includes detailed radiologist report within 3 working days.
Standard MRI
Focused MRI of the pituitary gland
£295
With Contrast
Includes contrast for enhanced lesion detection
£495
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
FAQs
Got a question? Check below to find the answer.
We’re an independent diagnostic centre in Dartford offering same-day private MRI with UK-consultant reporting and transparent self-pay pricing.
No-self-referral is welcome. If you already have a referral letter, upload it at checkout.
Prices start at £150 for single-area Off-Peak scans. Your fee covers the scan, double-reading, and unlimited portal access.
Many insurers reimburse private MRI. We provide the codes and receipts you need to claim.
Call 01322 - MRI - NOW, start a live chat, or email hello@myscanhub.co.uk.