Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) measures in vivo concentrations of specific metabolites within a pre-determined volume of brain tissue. Using this information, MRS could potentially assist in the diagnosis of space occupying lesions in the brain.
The use of MRS is currently subject to a national noncoverage determination (Coverage Issues Manual Section 50-13).
On August 8, 2002 the American College of Radiology formally requested a National Coverage Determination (NCD) be made for MRS for the following indications:
1. Cerebral tumor versus abscess or other infectious or inflammatory process, and
2. Cerebral tumor versus radiation necrosis.
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