Magnetic resonance imaging is an suitable choice in investigation of intramedullary located lesions. The well known advantages are - multiplanar imaging possibilities, absence of X-rays and high contrast. The sensitivity is very high. Less pronounced specificity is influenced not only by the experience of the examining doctor and used technique of investigation but also by the knowledge of the clinical picture, the patient’s history and some auxiliary tests e.g. examination of cerebrospi- nal fluid. Magnetic resonance imaging can differentiate between extra- a intramedullary localiza- tion of tumours, differentiate tumour and oedema, visualize its solid and cystic components. This is essential information for further clinical work.

        Key words: magnetic resonance imaging - hydrosyringomyelia - intramedullary tumours - astrocy- toma - ependymoma - haemangioblastoma - spinal cord metastasis - radiation necrosis