How to read an MRI report?

[msconfused77]

I was dx w/MS in Sept 09 and have been using Rebif since Nov 09. I have been having varying levels of discomfort in my back which has been ongoing for 2 months for which I am regularly seeing a chiropractor. As the issue isn't settling my chiro suggested I speak to my neurologist - could my back pain be MS related? The nuero didn't think so but ordered an MRI
Summarized results say:
Most of the lesions are unchanged. There are two lesions which
demonstrate restricted diffusion in keeping with relatively acute plaque. A lesion in the right post central gyrus medially does demonstrate some restricted diffusion and rim enhancement in keeping with a relatively acute plaque. This lesion was visible on the previous study but did not have these characteristics and was not of the same size as on the current study. The appearances are in keeping with demyelination.lll-defined area of demyelination atC2l3 and possibly C5/6

Does this mean I am still having MS activity? Could that mean the rebif isn't working? Could the lesions mentioned cause discomfort in the back, between the shoulder blades and in the neck. I am concerned if the medication isn't working as I don't have another appointment with the Nuero until Sep 10.

[msconfused77]

Thanks for all the responses. It's nice to get feedback on the questions I have from people who understand. This is such a tricky sneaky disease isn't it? I am still waiting on my manual (grin).

If it is back spasms are there any suggestions on how I can counteract that or reduce it?

Thanks again!

[sunnyinthesnow]

pain between the shoulder blades- lhermitte's sign?
pain in the neck- c spine lesions?

i don't understand why your doc thinks it's unrelated.

[MsmsinFl]

My neuro says Rebif takes at least 6 months to be effective, and at least a year to make a difference in MRI.

So maybe you need a little more time on Rebif, OR maybe the MRI equipment was different etc.

OR maybe new MS activity

OR Maybe give the Rebif another couple of months, then consider a change.

-- but in any case, probably need a little more time to see how it unfolds.

[Lulu54]

HiMSConfused - welcome to the forum here - I don't think we have crossed paths yet.

Reading these reports is not my forte - but it does sound like the plaque (another word for lesion) has changed significantly.  

Other than spasms, I am unclear how MS causes back pain.  But I do know that every time I see my neuro, that is one of the questions they ask in screening - do you have any back pain or new back pain?.  

Would it be possible to contact your neuro's office and request an earlier appt. since these tests were done at the doctor's recommendation?  I would plead the case that the tests show changes and you want to know what is going on with your trreatment regimen.


Good luck and I'll watch for you around here.  

my best, Lulu