CCF

[Bobbi D]

After many years of symptoms (fatigue, dizziness, balance problems, tingling, numbness, stiffness, depression, etc) which come and go at random I was recently sent to a neurologist for testing after I complained of a buzzing/shocklike feeling down my spine when I bent my neck a certain way. The neurological exam was normal except for a positive Babinski on left side, the L'hermittes (he told me that is what it is called) and hyperactive reflexes. The neuro ordered an MRI of my c spine which showed demyelination and compression of my cervical spine. He diagnosed it that day as CNS demyelinating disease and scheduled me for an MRI of the brain.  That MRI showed only one "white spot" and "empty cella syndrome" which he said had nothing to do with my symptoms.  
After researching all the terminology I found numerous articles and info on MS and was convinced that was what I had.  The neuro said probably not and now wants me to see a neurosurgeon for the spinal cord compression.  I have many of the symptoms of MS, except I have never had any optical problems at all.  I even have that feeling around my body like a tight belt.  When I have the symptoms, I feel awful and can barely stay awake. But when they wane I feel absolutely fine, sometimes for months. Anyway, on this forum I often notice you suggesting to people to come to the Cleveland Clinic for a second opinion because your group specializes in MS.  I was wondering how much a visit there would cost, since my primary (HMO) doctor would probably not refer me?  I already have copies of my MRI's so I wouldn't need to have them redone. I live in NY but would travel to Cleveland if I could get a definate answer one way or the other.  Thanks so much for offering this forum.

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Bobbi:

Sorry to hear about your health problems.  I don't know the cost of a visit to someone at the Mellon center (our MS institute).  Usually HMOs allow second opinions and your primary care physician should be able to authorize a visit.  There is a phone number on the medhelp neurology page (I think it is 1-800-CCF-CARE).  

A person can have isolated spinal cord MS, and the symptoms of relapsing and remitting would fall into the MS category.  The MRI would collaborate the physical findings on exam (Babinski sign and hyper-reflexia).  I cannot comment on the spinal cord compression since I haven't seen the films.  

I do hope you get things sorted out.

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD

[Bobbi D]

Thank you.