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What sort of spinal conditions would NOT show up on an MRI?
by KStuff, May 18, 2008 04:34PM
I've had upper and lower back pain for several months. The pain seems to be coming from the spinal cord and radiating into the tissue or muscle surrounding my vertebrae. I've had several xrays, an MRI of my lumbar region and a CT of my abdomen and pelvis, all with negative results. Other symptoms include feeling numb in my hands and feet, poor sense of balance, flashes of light when I blink and dizziness. Is there a condition that would include these symptoms, but not show on an MRI?
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MRI would detect any structural abnormality to the brain and spine, including compressions or demyelinating conditions such as MS or conditions like ALS. However, some functional nervous system abnormalities may not show up on these scans. These are problems with neurotransmitters or other chemicals produced in the brain and spinal cord. Problems with the blood supply may also not show up. I suggest that you discuss these possibilities with your neurologist and possibly the use of other forms of magnetic resonance test such MR angiography (to assess blood vessels), or MR spectroscopy to assess for chemicals.
Regards and God bless.