Re: bright spots

Posted By CCf Neuro MD *!* on December 02, 1997 at 19:32:16:

In Reply to: bright spots posted by sed on December 02, 1997 at 17:28:19:







: I had an MRI and a MRA and was told I have no bright spots on the brain.
What does the Dr. mean by that statement? I have had many TIAs and I am on
alot of medications for fibromuscular dysplasia of the carotids. My
symptoms include numbness of extremities, headaches, high blood pressure,
dizziness and loss of coordination. Pleas reply ASAP Thanks, sed



=
Dear Sed,
Each bright spot on  an MRI scan  indicates a small area of damage to the brain cells in that region. Since TIAs are mini strokes some of them leave a small scar in the brain tissue which shows up as a bright spot on the MRI scan.
In other words your doctor is telling you that you have no evidence of permanent damage to your brain from your TIAs.
This test was obviously done because you have  risk factors for  TIA / Stroke in the form of fibromuscular dysplasia and high blood pressure. High blood pressure could partly explain your headaches and dizziness , depending on how well it is controlled although numbness in your extremities is  not likely to be due to any of these factors.
While your problems have not yet been completely sorted out, on the basis of the facts you have given so far it would appear that you do not have substantial evidence of brain damage from your TIAs
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.
Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.