I'm 38 and just diagnoed with Optic Neuritis in my left eye

[confusedat38]

I hav had a lot of symptoms of Lupus and now MS. I have been ordered a MRI for the Optic Neuritis to see if MS is likely. Does all lab work have to come out negative to prove Lupus?  How often does the MRI show MSand what next if so?


This discussion is related to Very Mild Optic Neuritis - brain lesions.

[JohnHaganMD]

The MRI is the way to go as it is the definitive test for MS caused "plaques" that need counting and quantitated. Sometimes the MRI can be done with you sedated with an anti-anxiety medication like valium. In the USA there are also "open MRI" that do not have the anxiety enducing tubes.  

I hate MRIs also having had maybe 6-7 done on me for one or another reason.  

JCH MD

[rubylindsay72]

Hello can anyone please help me im having tests done for lupus ms ect due to optic neuritis i attempted an mri but couldnt go through with it due to panic disorder im currently on ghe hospital waiting list for sedation in the mean time my specialist said a ct with contrast and blood work will have to do  for now. Untill a spot becomes available my question is will the ct with contrast show anything relating to ms  Im beside myself with worry as i know the mri is the way to go i just need something!  Thanking you
Ellizabeth

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Lupus and multiple sclerosis (MS) are two entirely different problems. Lupus is often diagnosed from the medical history and special blood tests (ANA titer).

MS often shows up in a head MRI but multiple plaques in the white matter of the brain. You can have MS and not have brain plaques.

JCH III MD