MRI/Multiple Sclerosis

    
      Re: MRI/Multiple Sclerosis
    


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Posted by CCF Neuro MD on June 28, 1997 at 08:01:16:

In Reply to: MRI/Multiple Sclerosis posted by Connie on June 23, 1997 at 10:28:12:
  I had a MRI done on my head and it came back normal.  At the time I had been diagnosed with a viral inner ear (even though I explained that my head wasn't dizzy it was my body that felt dizzy.)  I don't know if they were looking for MS at the time of the MRI.  My question: is MS something that the doctor who looked at the MRI would have to be looking for, or is it something he couldn't miss?
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Hello, Connie,
Unfortunately, there is no single diagnostic test that is proof-positive for MS. There is a set of accepted criteria for MS diagnosis, but even these are imperfect.  To make a clinical diagnosis of MS, in addition to a thorogh medical history and neurological examination, a variety of specialized procedures are helpful.  These include MRI and spinal taps.  Although MRI can give the neurologist clear evidence of scar tissue that is characteristic of MS, abnormal spots can be caused by many other conditions, such as migraine headache and high blood pressure. Confirming a diagnosis of MS and ruling out other possible causes requires expert interpretation of the MRI scan. The Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research at Cleveland Clinic Foundation is one of the biggest MS center in the world.  If you like to have an evaluation by one of our MS specialists in the mellen center, please call 1(800)223-2273 ext.45559, or 1(800)545-7718.  Feel free to give these numbers to anyone sharing same concerns or someone with MS who like to have a second opinion.
This information is provided for general medical education purpose only.  Please consult your primary physician for the diagnosis and treatment of your specific medical conditions.