Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis can be difficult due to several reasons including the fact that there is no specific test for the disease and that the symptoms are often characteristic signs of other diseases.

It is estimated that approximately ten percent of patients diagnosed with MS in fact do not have this disease and that they have another condition such as lupus, inflammation of the blood vessels, a vitamin deficiency, multiple strokes, or a brain infection that caused their symptoms.

In order for an accurate diagnosis to be made, it is always advisable to have the examination performed by a neurologist that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis. 

Diagnostic Testing for Multiple Sclerosis 

In order to accurately diagnose the disease of multiple sclerosis, a neurologist who specializes in this condition will base their findings on the patient's medical history and the results of a neurological examination that evaluates the functioning and condition of the brain and spinal chord.

Testing may include an MRI or magnetic resonance imaging that will show highly detailed images of the spinal chord and brain that can show any damage that the disease has caused. One of the diagnostic criteria for MS is two or more lesions on the spinal chord or brain that will show with an MRI. 

A spinal tap may also be performed that takes a sample of the fluid in the spinal column - cerebrospinal fluid - that is tested for the levels and types of certain substances. Blood testing will also be done and can rule out the possibility of numerous other diseases and infections that can mimic the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

The electrical signals that are sent to the brain can be tested with an "evoked potential test" that can be performed by sending electrical impulses through the leg or arm. Audio and visual evoked potential tests can also be done to check the responses that will show within the brain. 

Diagnostic Criteria for MS 

The diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis includes the age of an individual which is typically between twenty and fifty years old.  The signs and symptoms of damage caused by disease that has occurred to the nerves of the brain and spinal chord is also used in the diagnostic criteria for MS with episodes of symptoms being present for at least a twenty four hour period; however, they must be separated by at least one month's time.

Two or more lesions seen with image testing is also considered as part of the diagnostic criteria for MS and all other medical conditions or diseases must also be ruled out as a possible cause.  

When multiple sclerosis is detected early, there are many forms of treatment that can be given to aid in delaying the progression of this disease, therefore, if you are experiencing signs or symptoms that are concerning you, it is essential that you contact your physician as soon as possible for a medical evaluation.