Diagnosing MS.

Early MS may present itself as a history of rather vague and seemingly unrelated symptoms. The symptoms come and go, and many can be attributed to any number of other medical conditions. Therefore, it could be a prolonged diagnostic process before MS is suggested. Evaluation of the results from several tests and procedures is needed to confirm a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. Information about tests performed for MS diagnosis:

Medical History

The doctor will do a complete medical history, which will include details of past signs and symptoms and the current status of the patient's health. The types of symptoms, their onset and pattern may suggest MS, but a full physical examination and other medical tests will be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Neurological Examination

The neurologist will test for abnormalities in nerve pathways. Some common neurological signs involve changes in eye movement, limb coordination, balance, weakness, reflexes, unusual sensations and speech patterns. Again, this examination alone is not conclusive. Other illnesses produce symptoms similar to MS and must be eliminated.

Visual and Auditory Testing

When de-myelination (scarring) occurs, the conduction of messages along the nerves is often slowed. This can be measured by placing electrodes on the head to monitor brain wave response to visual and auditory stimuli. Normally, the brain's reaction is almost instantaneous. The presence of de-myelination means a delay may occur.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The MRI scanner takes very detailed pictures of the brain and spinal cord and shows any existing areas of sclerosis (scarring). This is the only test, which can reveal the lesions of Multiple Sclerosis. Alone, an MRI is not conclusive, because the scanner cannot pick up all lesions. And again, conditions other than MS produce identical abnormalities. But combined with supporting evidence from a good medical history and a thorough neurological examination, it can be persuasive in confirming MS diagnosis.

Lumbar Puncture

In this test, cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid which flows around the brain and spinal cord) is tested for the presence of antibodies. The fluid is taken by inserting a needle into the back and withdrawing a small amount of fluid. This may indicate MS, but it, too, is not conclusive. Antibodies can occur with MS, but they can also occur with other neurological conditions.

(source: MSSociety)

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