brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
A doctor's evaluation Magnetic resonance imaging Sometimes additional tests Because symptoms vary widely, doctors may not recognize the disorder in its early stages. Doctors suspect multiple sclerosis in younger people who suddenly develop Blurred Vision , When doctors suspect multiple sclerosis, they thoroughly evaluate the nervous system ( Neurologic Examination ) during a physical examination. They examine the back of the eye (retina) with an Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (MRI) is the best imaging test for detecting multiple sclerosis. It usually detects areas of demyelination in the brain and spinal cord. However, MRI cannot determine whether the demyelination has been there for a long time and is stable or it is very recent and still progressing. Nor can MRI determine whether immediate treatment is required. So doctors may inject gadolinium (a paramagnetic contrast agent) into the bloodstream and do MRI again. Gadolinium helps distinguish areas of recent demyelination from areas of long-standing demyelination. This information helps doctors plan treatment. Sometimes demyelination is detected when MRI is done for another reason, before multiple sclerosis causes any symptoms. 