Is it possible to diagnose MS WITHOUT LP?

[flyfarfaraway]

Hi, Is it possible to diagnose MS without a lumbar puncture. If so, what are the requirements?

I ask because I am absolutely refusing to have an LP. It's one of those things I would never do, that and brain surgery unless it was a life-threatening situation. I am not willing to accept the risks (even if you think they are minute). I'm sorry but my mind is made up.

SUMMARY: My brain MRI said I have 12-15 lesions which meet the McDonald's criteria for MS. + family history + 1 definite attack that lasted for 2 months earlier this year and now gone (although I personally really think I've had symptoms/episodes since I was a teenager).

I will be going for VEP and an MRI of the spine.

So, just between me an you, do you think I can get a diagnosis WITHOUT a lumbar puncture?

You're thoughts are kindly appreciated.

[Shortyrock]

I completely understand not wanting to have an LP...I didn't want one either...they did my LP in the ER @ a University affiliated hospital..and resident doctor let his student perform his very first LP on me! I was scared to say the least...the actual procedure didn't hurt much...but the next day I had the most horrible headache I've ever experienced ...I couldn't sit up for almost a week...the only time it didn't hurt was when I lied flat...Spinal headaches are horribl3...but It did go away...my LP came back normal...but I'm still glad I did it..cuz if I didn't I would be wondering all the time...and since they suspected GBS at the time...I kinda had to let 'em do it....How are you anyway??

[mms556]

I think they can if you had 2 recorded episodes of neurological deficit that lasted for more than a few days and involved different parts of the neuro system along with non-specific periventricular white matter lessions in T2 flair MRI, these fullfill MacDonalds criteria. Personally, I would rule out other causes which may result on these neuro-deficit such as trauma on the peripheral neuros, or infected sinusus and really depends on the case. I hope this heps. At your age, mild degenerative changes in your spine may cause smilar symptoms with MS patients!