Glossary terms - M

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)

Process that involves injection of contrast material into a blood vessel and uses a large, powerful magnet, rather than X-rays, to create pictures of the blood vessels.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A type of scan that, instead of X-rays, uses a large, powerful magnet to create an image (picture) of part of the body. Provides detailed structural information on the brain, showing inflammation and bleeding, and changes over time. A further development called functional magnetic resonance imaging can also provide information on metabolism, showing how well the brain is functioning.

Massage

Manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the hands or using an electric massage appliance. Can aid relaxation, and stimulate circulation and elimination of toxins.

Memory

Memory is the ability to take in, store and retrieve information.

MID (Multi-Infarct Dementia)

Multi-infarct dementia is a form of dementia caused by a number of small blood clots (emboli) in the brain that starve the brain cells of oxygen. Also known as Vascular Dementia.

Middle cerebral artery

The artery that most frequently becomes blocked and causes stroke.

Migraine

Migraine is a severe form of a headache, usually one sided and frequently associated with nausea and vomiting. There might be warning symptoms beforehand that usually affect the eyesight and are known as an "aura".

Motor

Relating to movement.

Moyamoya disease

Moyamoya disease is a rare, progressive 'cerebrovascular disorder' caused by blocked arteries at the base of the brain in an area called the basal ganglia. The disease usually affects children but can also affect adults.

MRI scan

See "Magnetic resonance imaging" above. Imaging technique used to create pictures of the brain using magnetic fields and radio waves.

Muscle tone

The degree of tension in a muscle when at rest.

Myocardial infarction

The medical term for a heart attack.