How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed?

Answer 1

Symptoms of MS can include a range of physical manifestations such as fatigue, limb numbness, balance and gait issues, vision impairment, pain, emotional and cognitive changes, bladder/bowel troubles and spasticity to name a few. However, other medical conditions share similar symptoms, which makes self-diagnosis difficult.

If experiencing symptoms such as the ones above, a visit to a doctor can begin the process of elimination. Should MS be suspected, a general practitioner may order an MRI of the brain. If the report notes the presence of white matter, which can indicate that the immune system is stripping myelin (or the coating of nerve ending) which may be responsible for the patient's symptoms. A neurologist is typically consulted and will runs several tests that check the patient's visual/audio responses. The neurologist may order a lumbar puncture scan the spinal fluid for traits known to MS.

Based on previous medical history, current symptoms and test results, medical professionals will then make a determination as to what condition the patient has. While MS has no known cure, there are several proven treatments available to assist the patient in maintaining an active life. Keep in mind that every person with MS has a unique experience with the disease. There are many online and local support groups for persons with MS and communication with one's doctor, coupled with a positive outlook, is key.

Answer 2

A differential diagnosis for a particular disease is another disease that has similar characteristics or climical similarities with it, and could possibly be misdiagnosed. The differential diagnoses has to be ruled out in order to positively diagnose MS. Multiple sclerosis is unique in this manner because it does not have any clinically unique symptoms of its own -- diagnosing MS is ultimately a diagnosis of exclusion. The list of possible diseases or conditions which mimic MS is too long to list here; check the Related Link for a list of possibilities.

Answer 3

MS is a diagnosis of exclusion. You have to exclude all other potential causes for the signs and symptoms you are experiencing in order to determine that you have MS.

Specifically, you need to have an MS-like condition (such as Optic Neuritis, common in MS patients) and a corroborating high-field MRI scan, or you need to have two different conditions disseminated by space and time (i.e. different body systems, with at least 6 months in-between).

There are other tests that can also corroborate a diagnosis of MS, like a lumbar puncture (a.k.a. a spinal tap). Blood tests will be done, but a blood test alone cannot diagnose MS. It can assist in the exclusion of other diseases and conditions that might cause the symptoms you are experiencing, and might cause the MRI scans to show the telltale signs of MS.

Finally, you will receive a full neurological exam in order to determine what your symptoms are and how badly they are affecting you. The exams also aid in tracking disease progression.