What are the different ways to diagnose multiple sclerosis?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been sick off and on for over a year. Symptoms will come and go. However, just recently, I developed severe nerve pain and vision loss in one eye. It was that major symptom that made me get admitted to the hospital for four days. The retina specialist who last examined my eye and records believed my symptoms suggested Multiple sclerosis. She suggested an MRI, but it will be a while before she views the scan and gets a neurologist to go over the result. I just want a neurologist to translate and give their translation of these results on my image report. I am only 37, and I am a mother. I just want to get answers with no sugar coating so I can move forward with a plan.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am so sorry to known that happened to you. The symptoms that you suffer from and the MRI suggest that you have Optic neuritis. Many times (around 40%), optic neuritis are a forerunner for Multiple sclerosis, but in some cases, it only stays as isolated optic neuritis. The way to diagnose multiple sclerosis is by an MRI brain and spine with contrast (in your case, spine is not done) to check for silent lesions. CSF (Lumbar puncture) to check for the oligoclonal band. VEP (visual evoked potentials) for both the eyes. So, first of all, your workup is not complete. So get all the tests done, and if the tests are positive, then you should start on prophylactic therapy(there are many options that need to be discussed in detail) to cut down on remissions. And if it comes negative, then you will have to wait and watch. I will be delighted to help you.

Let me know. Please send me the treatment that you got during your admission at the hospital.

Regards.