Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis
A proper diagnosis is the first step in getting treatment to help you feel better, whether you have multiple sclerosis or another condition. Early multiple sclerosis diagnosis is especially important because early treatment can help slow the progression of the disease. In fact, early treatment can help even if you don’t have visible symptoms of multiple sclerosis. That’s because the disease often progresses silently, causing nerve damage before you’re even aware of any problems.
How is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed?
A multiple sclerosis diagnosis usually starts with a discussion of your symptoms and medical history with your doctor. He or she may also look for signs you may not be aware of, such as abnormal responses of your pupils and changes in your reflexes. Your doctor also will want to know if you’ve had at least two “attacks” or episodes of symptoms. In addition, your doctor may order diagnostic tests, such as:
- An MRI Scan. The MRI, short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, uses a machine with a strong magnetic field to create cross-sectional images or "scans" of the brain and spinal cord. MRI scans can show inflamed myelin and how much scar tissue has accumulated over time due to MS activity. It also allows doctors to eliminate many alternative disorders that have symptoms similar to MS.
- A Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap). In the examination known as a lumbar
puncture, a needle is inserted into the spinal column to take a sample of the
fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The fluid in people with MS shows
specific changes that match up with the presence of inflammation.
- Evoked Potentials. Evoked potentials or evoked responses measure the response time of various nerve impulses throughout the body. When multiple sclerosis is present, it is possible to see whether certain impulses are slowed down in the nerve fibers (because of demyelination). The more demyelination, the slower the transmission of impulses.
