EDSS, VEP, EMG tests for multiple sclerosis

Hi Everyone,

After reading many of the posts on here, I'm wondering if I should be concerned. Many people have discussed having an EDSS score/test, and VEP and EMG tests. My neuro has never even brought these up to me. They're still trying to figure out for sure what I have - right now I have clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) with at least one lesion in my spine, with bad spasticity, weakness, stiffness in my legs (especially my left one) that has continually progressed since the onset of my symptoms about 16/17 months ago. And I had possible optic neuritis a year ago February.

Should I be concerned that my neuro hasn't ever mentioned doing any of these tests? Are these pretty standard tests that are completed?

Thank you,
Kelly

[jensequitur]

The EDSS is an evaluation of your physical disability.  (Expanded Disability Standard Scale.)  Basically it's an indication of how well you can get around.

With one lesion in the spine, the next step is to schedule you for a lumbar puncture.  VEP and EMG tests are also good to have if you're looking for a diagnosis.

I would mention to your neuro that you're having continuing symptoms.  See if he'll send you in for an OCT test (optical coherence tomography) that will measure the thickness of the optic nerve.  Atrophy of that nerve is a positive sign of MS.

[kelly97]

Hi, Thanks for your response.

Yes, I'm definitely wanting to get out of limboland.

I already had a lumbar puncture in earlier March. The preliminary results showed that it was negative. I can't get in to see my neuro again until September (that's his first opening). Thankfully, I'm going to the Rocky Mtn MS Ctr in late June, and I can talk to a neuro there about it. I've never heard of an OCT test, I'll have to look into it - especially since I already have an appt scheduled with an opthamologist again in early May.

[jensequitur]

Good luck!  Let us know how things go.