|
How Is MS Diagnosed?
An accurate diagnosis is based on your medical
history and neurological examination. A variety of specialized
procedures are helpful in accurately diagnosing MS. These
procedures may include a MRI (magnetic resonance
imaging), spinal tap, evoked potentials, or other laboratory
analysis of blood samples.
What does a MRI Show?
The images produced by a MRI gives neurologists clear evidence
of scar tissue in the deep parts of the brain and/or spinal
cord that is characteristic of MS. However, abnormal spots
on the brain MRI can be caused by other conditions. To ensure
the proper diagnosis of MS, it is important that a qualified
neurologist interpret these images.
Will I need a Spinal Tap?
Performing a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) is done to examine
the cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is tested for
levels of certain immune system proteins and the presence
of oligoclonal bands. For some individuals a spinal tap
is done in order to rule out other medical conditions and
support the diagnosis of MS.
What other tests might be done?
Evoked potentials are helpful in confirming whether MS has
affected the visual, auditory, or sensory pathways. Evoked
potentials are used to measure the electrical activity in
certain areas of the brain and spinal cord. Electrical activity
is produced by stimulation of specific sensory nerve pathways.
These tests are used in combination with other diagnostic
tools to assist in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS)
and other disorders. Evoked potentials are used because
they can indicate dysfunction along nerve pathways that
is too subtle to show up during a neurologic examination
or noticed by the person. The disruption may not even be
visible on MRI. Evoked potentials test and record how quickly
and completely the nerve signals reach the brain.
Your doctor may order blood tests to help rule out conditions
that imitate multiple sclerosis, but the presence of MS
cannot be detected in the blood.
The Future
The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis can be a lengthy
process. Upon hearing the diagnosis, you may feel a mixture
of emotions such as denial, relief, fear, and optimism.
When a person develops MS, he or she wants to know what
will happen in the future. One of the greatest challenges
of MS is the unpredictability and uncertainty of what is
to come. A good plan for coping with what may come is to:
| > |
Educate yourself about the disease and any possible
changes;
|
 |
| > |
Work with your doctor and other health care professionals
to manage your symptoms and general health;
|
|
| > |
Communicate openly with your family and others;
|
|
| > |
Stay healthy by eating properly, getting plenty of
rest, exercise (when you can) and find healthy coping
techniques to manage stress.
|
|
