Role of MRI in Evaluation of Patients with Non - Traumatic Headaches

K Venkata Sai Kumar, Sandesh Gowda C A, Praveen Ramegowda, Banuprakash S, Anand S H.

Abstract: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non - invasive imaging modality that offers high - resolution visualization of soft tissues, making it essential in evaluating non - traumatic headaches. These headaches may be primary (e. g., migraine, tension - type, cluster) or secondary (due to structural/pathological causes like tumours or vascular anomalies). MRI aids in differentiating between these by detecting subtle abnormalities undetectable by CT. MRI is particularly useful when headaches present with atypical features, neurological deficits, or changes in frequency/severity. This study aimed to assess the role of MRI in evaluating non - traumatic headaches. A cross - sectional observational study was conducted on patients presenting with such headaches. While 72.2% of patients had normal MRI findings, 27.8% exhibited abnormalities such as white matter changes, arachnoid cysts, and Chiari I malformations. MRI findings correlated significantly with age group (31?45) and chronicity. MRI proves to be a valuable diagnostic tool guiding patient management.

Keywords: Non - traumatic headache, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Primary vs secondary headache, Acute headache, Chronic headache, arachnoid cysts, chiari malformations