I have seen many many Drs over the last 5 years. Every Dr has different ev34 changing opinions. Lupus, RA, MCTD Polymyositis, inflammatory arthritis... I could go on. I have many positive ANA tests homogenious.But, I was compiling my test results for my disability application and reread my MRI W/wo contrast from 4 years ag . Now I am more educated than when this began. It is causing me to question whether or not I have MS either in addition or instead. Plus I will add that I just found out a have a cousin with MS.
I don't want to list all my symptoms, so these are concerning and the drs just kind of ignore them. I have been falling down for the last 3 years. It is my right foot dropping and dragging or catching steps etc. Extreme braion fog with memory issues that have worsened. Burning electrical pain, muscle weakness and swelling, tendon sheath swelling in my feet and ankles. I explain that it feels as though my joints are loose and move, pop and very painfu . Over the last 5 years this has gone from my hands and feet to my hips, shoulders and this last year my neck and spine seem unstable and painful.
So, I would like some advice on this MRI of 4 years ago that I feel may be important.
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Scattered punctate foci of increased signal intensity best seen on FLAIR sequence in the subcortical and deep white matter tracts bilaterally. They are non specific. They do not enhance and do not cause mass effect. They can be seen in multiple etiologies including small vessel ischemic changes, diabetes, hypertension, collagen vascular disease, vasculitis, migrane headaches and demyelination to name several potential etiologies. Note is made they do not have the typical appearance and/or distribution of demyelination.
Cortical sulci and ventricules are within normal limits.
The basilar cisterns are patent.
Flow voids are identified in the distal vertebral arteries, the basilar artery and the bilateral internal carotid arteries.
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I am seeing a new rheumatologist this next week and I would like some advice regarding this repor . My past Rheumy said it was normal. I have never been referred to a nuero!ogist. Any help in understanding the MRI and if this may be important enough to follow through and push for a nuero evaluation... Would be helpful.
Thank you so much for your help!