M.S.????

    
      Re: M.S.????
    


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Posted by ccf neuro M.D. on June 01, 1997 at 14:20:16:

In Reply to: M.S.???? posted by Marsha on May 25, 1997 at 08:45:10:

: Is it possible to have several symptoms similar to
  M.S. with a negative MRI, Evoked Response and Spinal
  Tap? My doctor says its an underlying depression. I
  don't agree. The symptoms are very "real".
  Thank You.
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Marsha, multiple sclerosis is a disease of unknown cause in which the insulation of the nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord, called myelin, is stripped off of the nerve cells and fibers randomly in "spots". This is clinically manifested by attacks of neurologic symptoms; some of the more common symptoms are bladder spasms, double vision, loss of vision/blindness in one eye, numbness from a particular part of the body on down, incoordination, weakness, and loss of dexterity. Usually such attacks are separate in time and (neurologic) space. Tests to diagnose the disorder include MRI of the brain (the best test), spinal tap, and visual evoked potential; as well as, of course, examining and taking a history from the patient. Sometimes multiple sclerosis is confined to the spine, in which case only MRIs of the spinal cord will detect the "spots." Depression and anxiety disorders can produce certain physical, bodily symptoms that can be confused with neurologic disease; most often tingling of fingers, toes,  and mouth, hyperventilation, shooting pains in the chest and abdomen, and occasionally dizziness or a feeling of imbalance and/or faintness. These symptoms are no more or less "real" than those experienced by people with neurologic diseases. Without knowing any details of your symptoms, it is of course impossible for me to suggest diagnostic possibilities in your specifc case; but I would definitely be sure that it is a NEUROLOGIST that tells you that you do or do not have multiple sclerosis. I can say that while not impossible, it is EXTREMELY improbable that one has multiple sclerosis if one has a negative lumbar puncture (with special tests for M.S.), MRI of the brain and spinal cord, and a normal visual evoked potential. If you would be interested in a second opinion at the Cleveland Clinic, our Mellen Center is one of the world's foremost centers for the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis--- I can guarentee you'd get a relaible definite yes or no from the doctors there!!! Our phone number is
1-800-223-2273--- ask for Mellen Center appointments. The information provided in the neurology forum is intended for general medical informational purposes only; specific diagnosis, treatment, and management of your specific medical illness whould be strictly in conjunction with your treating physician(s). I hope this information is useful for you.