“Can MS be confirmed through an MRI scan?”
My father is 72 years old and is showing symptoms of MS. We haven't taken him to the doctor yet because of our schedule, but we plan to go soon. I read somewhere that an MRI would be used to confirm the diagnosis, but my father doesn't want to go through that. Is this true? What are the ways to confirm MS?
8 Answers
MS would be very unlikely in a patient of that age as it is usually first seen in patients 20-40 yo. MR is the best test as it can detect other conditions.
Richard Grant Hunter
Neurologist
You haven't said what his symptoms are, so hard to make a judgement. MRIs can confirm diagnosis in most cases, but often find other diseases instead. Sometimes negative with active MS. MRIs are much more precise with guidance from requesting physician. Would suggest seeing Neurologist first. Good luck!
MS can be confirmed by several different ways. First make an appointment to see a neurologist who is an expert in diagnosing and managing MS. MRI is one of the test that may be used to diagnose MS. There is a specific disease pattern or appearance on MRI. Additional tests should be used in combination, such as a spinal tap. The sooner your father is diagnosed the earlier his care and management can begin. All the best.
MRI can certainly help, or can help to exclude other causes of his symptoms. Spinal fluid analysis is generally necessary for confirmation. That being said, it would be very unusual for someone to get to his age without it diagnosed at an earlier age. It CAN occur at any age, but is far more commonly diagnosed in the 20-40-year-old age group.
MRI findings are necessary criteria for MS but they are not always diagnostic. A detailed neurological history and exam are much more important.
Type of presentation, neurological signs symptoms, blood & CSF investigations & MRI, which may show the demyelinating plaques in the brain.
MRI is what he needs, yes. Go to an open MRI and ask for a valium. We can provide the service if nearby, we take medicare. WWW.MHIMAGING.COM
MRI is probably the best means of detecting MS noninvasively.
