What constitutes a CIS?

[JoelleB1]

Just wondering...what is a CIS...and do you have to have a MRI showing lesions to be classified with a CIS...or can a CIS be diagnosed just based on symptoms?

[JoelleB1]

thanks for clarifing...im having strange symptoms...but a negative MRI...so im still trying to figure this all out!!

[Suzie9]

Hi,
i was diagnosed with CIS just a few days ago and have brain and spinal lesions.They have said to me they will not be starting me on any medication,i will just be monitored.
We don't pay for medication here.
Suzie.

[jensequitur]

Okay, the NMSS website says you can have more than one symptom at a time and still be in the CIS category - multi-focal is what they called it.  But honestly, they're still messing around with the terminology, and it's not set in stone.

[jensequitur]

A CIS is a Clinically Isolated Syndrome.  What that means is that there's been an 'event' that's indicative of demyelination.  That sounds complicated, but basically what it is is all of a sudden, your head starts tingling.  Or you have a hard time seeing out of your right eye.  The symptom doesn't come with any other symptoms, it's isolated - hence the CIS.

You can have a CIS and not go on to develop MS.  If your MRI shows brain lesions, you have a greater chance of going on to develop MS.  If there are no lesions, less of a chance.

What they're saying right now is that if you start on the Copaxone or Betaseron immediately, then there's less of a chance of developing MS.  Of course, they're selling the expensive drugs, so take that with a grain of salt!