5 Tools Used to Diagnose Multiple Sclerosis

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by Marta Ribeiro |

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It’s never a good idea to jump to conclusionsĀ when trying to find a cause for any symptoms you might have. With multiple sclerosisĀ (MS), self-diagnosing is not the way to go. This diseaseĀ may cause permanent damage even in its earliest stages so it’s crucial to get it properly diagnosed as soon as possible.

According to theĀ National MS Society,Ā these are the tools usedĀ to diagnose MS:

1.Ā Medical history and neurologicalĀ exam
AĀ doctor is critical for this method. HeĀ or she will keep track of the patient’sĀ medical and familyĀ history and keep an eye out for past or future signs or symptoms that might be connected to MS. AĀ doctorĀ will also perform a series of psychological and physical examinations to test the patient’s senses and cognitive abilities.

2. Magnetic resonance imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) isĀ currently the least invasive method available to map a patient’sĀ central nervous system (CNS) and detect any problems. As MS is centered on the CNS, this scan can both help diagnose the patient as well as keep track of changes throughout their life. It’s important to note that when patients (up to 5 percent of cases) are first diagnosed throughĀ other methods, they might not showĀ signs of damage on an MRI. However, if later on in the development of the disease they still do not show any signs on anĀ MRI, they might need to question their MS diagnosis.

MORE:Ā Read more about magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MS diagnosis

3.Ā Optical coherence tomography
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a ratherĀ new and non-invasive method. It consists of an imaging tool that maps the structure of the retinas. The optic nerves are usually affected by MS but before this tool was invented, they couldn’t really be analyzed. Now with OCT, studies have shown that the retinal nerves of people with MS and without it are different.

Ā 4. Evoked potentials test
Evoked potentials (EP) works by stimulating nerve pathways and measuring what itĀ does to your brain activity. Although there’s a stimulation of those pathways, this is done throughĀ light, sensation or sound, so it’s harmless and mostly painless.Ā Like MRIs, this test can help detectĀ demyelination, which is crucial to officially diagnosing MS.

5.Ā Cerebrospinal fluid test
There is aĀ liquid in the human body that surrounds the spinal cord and the brain called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This liquid is filled with nutrients and chemicals that differ between people who have and don’t have MS. Spinal taps are required to test the liquid, and obviously must be done by a doctor. By examining this fluid, doctors can detect various nervous system diseases,Ā including MS.

MORE:Ā What to know about a spinal tap test and multiple sclerosis diagnosis

Multiple Sclerosis NewsĀ TodayĀ is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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