MRI results should I be worried!!??

Hi everyone,

I posted a few days ago about my mri results and being concerned that the doc said they were nothing. I was able to get my pics and the actual radiologist's report. I am going to post what it says and I am hoping anyone might be able to tell me if I should seek a 2nd opinion!

Findings: The sagittal images demonstrate normal vertebral alignment. There is an ovoid bony lesion seen of the T5, T6, and T12 segments. These appear intermediate to low signal on T1 weighted and are of high signal intensity on T2, not consistent with vertebral hemangioma.

The largest lesion is seen of the T6 segment measuring 15mm in greatest dimension. The smallest is seen on T12 segment and is 8mm. The bony cortex of these above segments are grossly intact.

Elsewhere, there are several Schmorl notes seen of the T7-L1 segments. No acute compression fracture or subluxation. The discs demonstrate minimal degenerative desc desiccation signal of the T7-8 and T8-9 levels.

No evidence for focal disc herniation or spinal canal stenosis.

Impression: Bony lesions involving the T5, T6, and T12 segments as detailed. The MR signal is not typical for vertebral hemangiomas. Therefore, malignancy (primary versus metastatic) cannot be completely excluded. Perhaps a contrasted mri exam may yield further information.  2. Multilevel schmorl nodes at lower thoracic spine.

This is what it says word for word. I have been having many scary symptoms and the doctor like I said before feels that this is nothing. Should I worry or are these nothing?? Should I seek a neuro specialist to read these and get brain mri??

I am just so frustrated and sick of being told there is nothing wrong when I know my body and I know there is something going on. And then they find this stuff in the exact spot that I have been complaining for months of excruciating pain and the pain that radiates down my spine!? Any info on what this mumble jumble means in lamen terms and if this sounds like ms lesions would be great. Thanks again for this awesome website and great support system!

[JemmAus]

Well if that were me and I read , "Therefore, malignancy (primary versus metastatic) cannot be completely excluded. " I would not be particularly happy.

I am no expert and I'm sure the others who are more knowledgable will chime in soon, but to me that doesn't read as MS lesions. SIt says lesions on the BONES which isn't MS.

I found this :

Vertebral hemangioma is benign vascular tumor composed of vascular channels that are cavernous, capillary, or venous in type. It is most common spinal axis tumor often identified as an incidental finding.

Schmorl's nodes are common, especially with minor degeneration of the aging spine.

personally I would get a second opinion, or ask for another MRI with contrast as recommended. Surely the fact that "malignancy cannot be completely excluded" is enough for a follow up with a relavant specialist?

though I am not sure that a neurologist is the appropriate specilaist in your case? I don't know...

Good luck!

[starryeyes1]

I would also get a 2nd opinion. I am not sure why they didn't do the MRI with contrast.
I wish you the best.

Kristi

[greenstar]

Consider your comfort level with your MD.  I have found that ignoring my gut is not often wise.  If you would feel more comfortable after an MRI with contrast... I say go for it.

[jensequitur]

Bony lesions are different from MS lesions.  

A sclerosis of the CNS - spinal cord or brain or heavily myelinated nerve - is a wet spot that indicates the tissue is breaking down.  This is why a new lesion enhances with gadolinium contrast.  The wet tissue has more water in it, and so picks up more of the gadolinium.

Bony lesions are (and I had to look this up!) are abnormalities in the bone.  They can be cancerous, although it's not a certainty.  But they're definitely something to follow up on.  You need to make sure that those lesions are benign.