probable ms diagnosis

[inchy]

I havebeen given a "probable" ms diagnosis.  I have had a brain scan which shpwed abnormalities and a lumbar puncture whicch came back positive . I have  abnormalities in two areas of the brain. I am experiencing motor problems speach slurring, dragging feet when walking and severe pain dowm legs/arms and severe fatigue.  If i have not got ms what have i got?

[jensequitur]

It sounds very much like MS - at least that's the most likely diagnosis, considering your test results and symptoms.  If it wasn't MS, it would be something else affecting the brain and spinal cord.  To be honest, MS is a better alternative than some of the other causes.

Lyme is also a possibility - have you been tested for it?

[RedFlame]

Do you know if you had O-bands in the CSF that were not in your blood?  O-bands are a strong indicator of MS.  Also, an high Igg index in the CSF will make the test positive.

It sounds like you may be in the begining of being diagnosed.   Diagnosis for MS can take a long time.  The other thing to remember is that there are many MS mimics that have to be ruled out.  Examples would be Lupus, Guillain-Barre, and low B12.

I suggest reading through the health pages.  The link is on the upper link on the right.  They are written by members that know MS inside and out.

Make sure you post in the MS forum and not the Neurology forum.  

take care and keep us posted.

Red

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Hi, Thank you for your question. Although without being able to examine you I can not offer you the specific advice on diagnosis and treatment that you need, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about your health concern.

In multiple sclerosis, common symptoms could be loss of muscle coordination & strength, normal sensation and vision. Other symptoms could be sometimes headache, delirium, seizures and coma. Another possibility could be compression of nerves due to obesity or spine disc prolapse/degeneration. By the reason of that nerves from the spinal cord can be irritated causing leg/thigh pain and numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. Few persons also face generalized body weakness and numbness due to other nerve irritation on back. If you suffer continuous weakness and notice reduced strength of muscle bulk in left leg, please arrange an appointment with a neurologist right away who will evaluate the possibilities here. These “red flags” could be indicative of compression of the spinal cord and its nerve branches and early treatment is essential if permanent damage needs to be avoided. Further referral to a physiotherapist for spinal exercises could be beneficial and may produce relief of symptoms. Hope this helps.