MRI Pituitary Scan
A private MRI pituitary scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of your pituitary gland, located at the base of your brain. This scan is done without ionising radiation and can help investigate a range of issues affecting this vital endocrine gland.
Written by the MyScanHub content team4 minutes reading time
From
£295
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MRI Pituitary Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Pituitary Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The pituitary gland itself, a small but crucial hormone-producing gland.
- The stalk connecting the pituitary to the hypothalamus.
- Surrounding structures like the optic nerves and cavernous sinuses.
- The sella turcica, the bony structure protecting the pituitary gland.
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the pituitary.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Unexplained headaches, particularly if persistent or severe.
- Changes in vision, such as blurred vision or loss of peripheral vision.
- Unusual changes in weight or appetite.
- Problems with growth or development (in younger individuals).
- Irregularities in menstrual cycles or fertility issues.
- Symptoms related to thyroid, adrenal, or other hormone imbalances.
- Galactorrhoea (unexplained milk production).
- Changes in mood, energy levels, or sleep patterns.
What an MRI Pituitary Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Pituitary adenomas (non-cancerous growths) and their size.
- Changes in the pituitary gland associated with hormonal imbalances.
- Inflammation or swelling of the pituitary gland (hypophysitis).
- Congenital abnormalities of the pituitary gland.
- Possible effects of head injuries on the pituitary gland.
- Findings that might explain headaches or vision changes related to the pituitary area.
Preparing for your MRI Pituitary Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Remove all metal jewellery and accessories before entering the scanning room.
- Complete a safety questionnaire to ensure the MRI is suitable for you.
- You can usually eat and take your regular medications as normal.
- Bring any previous scan reports or relevant medical information if available.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, or any implanted electronic device.
- If you have certain types of cochlear implants or artificial joints.
- If you have ever had metal fragments in your eyes or body.
- If you are pregnant, especially in the first trimester.
Your report
Every MRI at MyScanHub is reported by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist. Your written report is delivered securely to your patient portal within 3 working days.
You can download the report and your images from your patient account to share with your GP, physiotherapist or specialist, or add a GP consultation to talk the findings through. How to open and share your results.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the pituitary?
When you need answers quickly — or when prior imaging has been inconclusive — a private MRI at MyScanHub gives you timely access and specialist reporting without the wait.
Private scan benefits include:
- Fast access — same-day or next-day appointments, no waiting list
- Consultant radiologist report within 3 working days
- Fully-private, CQC-registered, GDPR-compliant imaging centre
- Secure online access to your report and images, easy to share with your GP or specialist
Smarter scanning. Proactive health. Peace of mind.
Step 1
Choose
Pick a scan or a programme. No GP referral required.
Step 2
Book
Select a time online — same-day availability most weekdays.
Step 3
Scan
Be seen by consultants at our Dartford, Kent imaging centre.
Step 4
Results
Consultant-led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a pituitary MRI take?
A single-part MRI scan typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes to complete. Your appointment may be slightly longer to allow for preparation and discussion.
Can I have a contrast agent for my pituitary scan?
A gadolinium contrast agent can be used to enhance the visibility of certain structures, particularly if a lesion is suspected. This is an optional add-on, costing an additional £120, and requires clinical confirmation of its necessity before booking.
Do I need a GP referral for a pituitary MRI?
No, a GP referral is not required to book a private MRI pituitary scan at MyScanHub. You can self-refer directly through our website or by calling us.
What happens after my scan?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You will receive your detailed report within 3 working days via your secure online patient portal, which you can download and share with your GP or other clinicians.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — MyScanHub accepts self-referral for most scans. Our consultant radiologists review every case. Some scans (e.g. contrast studies) do need a referring clinician; we'll let you know at booking.
When will I get my report?
Written reports from a GMC-registered consultant radiologist are delivered within 3 working days of your scan, often sooner. You can access the report — and the imaging — through your patient account at myscanhub.com.
Where is the clinic?
Our imaging centre is at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, Kent (DA9 9ST), in the Guildhall Outer Car Park — free parking, a few minutes from junction 2 of the M25 and the A2. We're open Monday to Saturday 8am–9pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. Full directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
Ready to book your MRI Pituitary Scan?
Book online in minutes. Same-day and next-day slots available most weekdays in Dartford, Kent. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
At our clinic in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford: free parking, open seven days. How to find us · All private MRI scans in Dartford & Kent