Blood Tests

Though no blood tests can confirm a diagnosis of MS, which tests are typically ordered to rule out something other than MS.   Thanks for your time.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-RPS]

Dear Tricia:

The tests that doctors order are based on history and the physical exam.  The history includes the symptoms that the patient has been experiencing.  So, what tests are ordered are based on the particular setting of a particular patient.  The list is actually quite long and can be pages in length unless one knows the particular symptoms a patient has been experiencing and the history the patient gives the doctor.  This is particularly true in a patient giving a history of MS.  The symptoms can be so generalized and diffuse or focal.  Sorry, I cannot attempt to give you a list without knowing more about the symptoms.  But, the diagnosis of MS is usually by combining the history with the physical exam.  

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD