MS testing

[urdacrazy1]

Just wanted to know if there is a specific type of test that needs to be taken in order to be diagnosed with MS. Or is MS something that would show up in any other kind of blood test? Like, I always have my thyroid levels, cholesterol, sugar, iron, etc. checked. I also have an almost two year old. Would all the tests they do during pregnancy show if I had MS even if they weren't looking for it? I am a huge hypochondriac so... But at the same time I get a lot of muscle twitching, just wanted to know if that is something that I should be worried about.
Thanx

[urdacrazy1]

Thank you so much for your response. Well, like I said I'm a big hypochondriac and also suffer from anxiety/panic disorder, but...
I get a lot of muscle twitching. I also sometimes get "tingling" on my face and head. I spoke to my doctor about it and he told me that it's due to my anxiety. But I was just wondering if I should have him run further tests.

[monotreme]

The only MS tests I know of are not blood tests.  Blood tests specific for other autoimmune diseases can be done to rule out MS, but they are not routine blood tests.  You would have to go to a doctor with your specific concerns to get the tests ordered.

Usually, a MRI of the brain and sometimes the spine is done to look for lesions (scarred areas) in the brain that would be found in MS.  EMG  (muscle test)  is also done and sometimes a lumbar puncture (LP) which is a spinal tap.

So the short answer is that tests for MS are specific and not routine.  

Are you having problems that would lead you to suspect MS??  Does it run in your family?   Feel free to ask questions.  Everyone will help.

Elaine