MS

[sheryl145]

What does this mean from my latest MRI? INTERPRETATION:
Brain Parenchyma: No evidence of acute infarcts or ischemia with no restricted diffusion. Some minimal
increased signal on diffusion weight images involving the right parietal lobe lateral to the right lateral
ventricle likely reflects T2 shine through and was present on the prior exam. There are multiple focal areas
of increased signal in the periventricular white matter having the appearance most typical of demyelination
process. This was present on the prior study as well and has likely very subtly progressed on prior study.
There is no abnormal enhancement involving any areas and in particular no abnormal enhancement involving any
of the probable demyelinating plaques. Cerebellum is involved to a lesser degree than cerebral cortex however
there is some subtle involvement not significantly changed from prior study. The pons demonstrate some
involvement as well unchanged from prior exam. Midbrain is unchanged as well. 7th and 8th nerve bundles
unremarkable and unchanged. No focal masses otherwise or mass effect.
Pituitary Fossa and Pineal Gland Regions: Partial empty sella with no pineal gland pathology.
Ventricular System and CSF Spaces: There is some mild prominence of ventricular system which does not appear
to be significantly changed from prior study and is likely within the range of normal for a patient of this
age. Mild cortical atrophy likely as well.
Bones and Bone Marrow: Unremarkable and unchanged.
Extra-axial Structures: There is chronic sinus disease moderate and slightly more prominent than on the prior
study likely. Extra-axial structures otherwise unremarkable and unchanged.
IMPRESSION:
1. Slight progression of periventricular white matter signal abnormalities likely reflecting demyelination
process.
2. No abnormal enhancement within the brain particularly involving any of the likely demyelination plaque.
3. Chronic sinus disease perhaps slightly more prominent than on 3/8/2011.
Thank you for allowing us to participate in the care of your patient.

[PastorDan]

My non-professional decidedly unqualified 1st impression os that a summary would say, "You're getting worse, but not a lot, and not rapidly."

Still, if I were in your shoes, I'd keep studyi g those DMDs along with discussing them wirh your neuro.  Pills and shots can each be scary, and everything has side effects.  Nevertheless, when rhere are many treatments that mifht slow a potentially disabling xisesae, I'm going to keep trying.

Praying you find the best options.

[sheryl145]

I had a n MRI of my spine in 2011. It showed lesions in it at that time, but we didn't do it this time. I was realy glad no new lesions as he told me last year I have already had a lot. I don't take any shots at this time, but I used to take avonex, but it made me ill. I thought it would stop but after 2 years I still got flu like symptoms. Now I just take vitamin d, baclofin, and restless leg pills clopapen (sp) and shots of B12 and vitamin B12 pills as well as meds for chrons disease. I really don't want to go  back on shots unless I have to.

[kwarendorf]

Given your new info, that you have been diagnosed for 12 years, I would think the neuro was looking for new lesions. It doesn't sound like there are any, as the report says that there was no enhancement, New lesions, or active lesions with light up, or enhance, in the presence of the contrast agent. Have you had MRI's of your C & T-spine?

Kyle

[sheryl145]

Thank you for your responses. I do have MS have had it for 12 years. I just wasn't sure what all of this meant. Since I son't see my neuro for a couple of months. He ordered it since I have been havng some problems (new) ones. I haven't been on shots just treating other symptoms, restless legs wnad  cramping and migranes. He is wanting me to go on shots and I am not sure which are the best ones. I am afraid of the pills. I also have Chrons and have had it for about 30 years.

[LisaJF]

Oh I Have plenty of those! I feel you there!

[SarahL2491]

Lisa
blame my spelling on cognitive fog day!

[LisaJF]

Sarah: Demyelination :D

I agree with Sarah, to have your doctor explain it to you.  This way, you won't receive misinterpretations and educated guesses.

One thing for sure, the neuroradiologist is one thorough son of a gun!  I've never seen any of my reports as detailed as yours.  And I had plenty of MRIs!

[SarahL2491]

who ordered this?  your GP or your neurologist?  Am sure if you have a neuro, he will explain it to you.  Much of it should not concern you but it sounds like MS, but there are other causes of demyelation.  I know I probably spelled that wrong.

Welcome to our forum, we are just MS patients helping each other, our only doctor is away taking care of herself, as she too has MS.

Keep us posted on what your neuro/doctor says!