MRI's and CT Scans for Fibro - Fibromyalgia Message Board

gaudet2 · 04-14-2008, 02:39 PM

I have a question that has been on my mind for a while...

I have read on some of the posts that some of you have had an MRI, or a CT Scan or both. When would these be needed for someone with FM and why would it be needed?

Even though with my insurance I would have to pay 20% (up to my out of pocket max...which I am almost at already this year), I am interested to see what an MRI or a CT scan would tell me about my FM and I want to ask my doc about it, but I thought I would ask what other's experiences were first.

gaudet2

kirstee · 04-14-2008, 03:28 PM

You would only need an MRI/CT Scan if you have another condition such as a displaced disk in your back. Some doctors may ask for this sort of test because they are fumbling around for answers, but it is not necessary to diagnose FMS. The basic test that rheumatologists perform is the tender point test, as well as elimination of other factors through blood tests/urinalysis (for instance) that would suggest another affliction.

Blessings,
Kirstee

bluelakelady · 04-15-2008, 08:50 AM

hi kiddo,
the reasons i have them has nothing to do with fibro. going for one today. yipeee, radioactive woman!!! i have a stack of other stuff goofing off in my body that requires ladder just to read the top line, giggle.
no mri or ct scan will give you any information about fibro. i would suggest you not go there unless there is a need. i have been exposed to more radiation than is wise, yet here we go again. new doc wants to see if i have a brain, giggle.
hope that helps.
peace,
bluelakelady
ps mine were for strokes, bladder and kidney, heart, arteries, joints, etc. where's that ladder when i need it???? giggle. have a grand day!!

gaudet2 · 04-15-2008, 05:03 PM

Thanks Blue!

At least I won't have to worry about having ANOTHER test done. They did tested my Vitamin D level today and also did a CBC to check my platelet level as I am bleeding unusually from my surgery site that I had on 2/15. Hope all comes back fine!

gaudet2

Grapedy · 04-16-2008, 10:24 AM

MRI's and CT's are not necessary for FM patients. Nothing shows up because there are no known visible changes to FM brains. I want to say there's a study underway about FM brain CT's, but don't quote me on that. Even if it is a real study we're still years away from the results.

Current thinking is that FM is in the nervous system or the muscles, and neither of those things leave behind evidence that can be picked up on any sort of imaging. Yet another reason why it's so hard to convince the bulk of the medical establishment that it's real.