There are several means by which multiple sclerosis is diagnosed, and often these methods will be used together to ensure a correct diagnosis. The symptoms of multiple sclerosis can also be explained by other neurological disorders, so often there is a need to take the results of several tests in order to assure a correct diagnosis. One of these diagnostic procedures is a Lumbar Puncture.
Menningitis,for one.
Cerebrospinal fluid is obtained by lumbar puncture.
A lumbar puncture takes about 30 minutes.
A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is a diagnostic test that removes cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal canal using a needle inserted between the lumbar vertebrae. This procedure can help diagnose various neurological conditions such as infections, bleeding, and inflammatory diseases affecting the brain and spinal cord.
a spinal tap, or lumbar puncture
I think you mean level of the vertebral column is a lumbar puncture generally performed?
Prepare for lumbar puncture
No, you do not need to have a lumbar puncture (also called a spinal tap) to have a diagnosis of definite MS. The clinical diagnosis of MS is made when the patient has two clinical events separated by space and time. Separation of space means having symptoms in different bodily systems; for example, a vision change and a motor control issue. Separation of time is most universally regarded as a difference of about six months. Additionally, there must be no other cause for these events. MS is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that you have to exclude everything else that could potentially be causing those symptoms until all you are left with is MS. This is because every symptom which can appear with MS can also appear in other diseases and conditions. This is why MS is often called "the Great Imitator." The lumbar puncture is part of the "body of evidence" which is used to confirm a diagnosis of MS. Used more frequently these days is a high-field (1.5T or 3T) MRI of the brain. These tests, along with meeting the clinical standards listed above, can lead to a diagnosis of MS.
Patients must avoid sitting or standing and remain lying down for as long as six hours after the lumbar puncture. They should also drink plenty of fluid to help prevent lumbar puncture headache
Yes
LP or Lumbar Puncture Analysis.
Lumbar Puncture