MRI Results - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

kwilson · 08-09-2004, 11:09 AM

I had a brain and spine MRI with and without contrast 2 weeks ago. The report read that I have a 5x6mm lesion in the anterior horn lateral to the ventricle and intensity noted in the white matter of the left frontal lobe and in the right pons. It went on to say that the findings were inconclusive but could be caused by primary demylination and suspicious of MS. I have seen a neuro who said I could wait and have another MRI in 2 months or have an EMG and spinal tap. I opted to have the tests done as soon as possible as the waiting and and not knowing is very stressful. Has anyone had an MRI similar to mine and have it be nothing or is this typical of an MS finding? Any information at all would be appreciated.

elecchic1022 · 08-09-2004, 12:49 PM

Hi Kwilson,

Welcome to the boards!

I am sorry, but my MRI results were different than yours. My lesion was in the brain stem, and extremely tiny, but sure knocked me on my butt!

I had a second MRI 6 months later, and the lesion was gone (not unusual), and no new lesions were found.

I also had the spinal tap, and there were elevated protein levels in my spinal fluid....a sign of MS. I am not sure what an EMG is. Is that the Evoked Potentials test?

I am diagnosed but I definitely know what your going through with all the waiting. My confirmed Dx came with my second flare up about 22 months after the first one. I am currently on Avonex, without any problems (other than flu-like symptoms). At least I can plan my sick day!

Here's hoping you get some answers soon. I'm sorry that I didn't have much to share with you on your question.

All the best,
Chrissy

kwilson · 08-09-2004, 01:04 PM

Hi Chrissy:

Thanks for your reply. The EMG is the Evoked Potential test, which I have this Wednesday. How many lesions did you have and where were they located? Mine are the right and left frontal brain lobe and the base of the brain that connects to the spintal cord. I am really dreading the spinal tap, but I would like a definite answer. How was the spinal tap? Is it as bad as I hear it is?

elecchic1022 · 08-09-2004, 01:18 PM

Hi again, Kwilson,

I only had the one lesion. It was in the base of the brain near the spinal cord.

The spinal tap wasn't too bad. They numb the area first. While he was doing the actual lumbar puncture, my left leg started jerking. I was afraid I might accidentally kick the nurse!

I did not get the bad headaches that people have talked about. I did everything they told me to do as far as laying flat on my back for (I think)24 hours. Sat up to eat or drink, and got up for the bathroom, then right back to bed or couch! I was a little tender for a few days, like when I bent over. It just felt like a pulling sensation with a little bit of pain. Nothing too bad.

Good luck with your tests!

kwilson · 08-09-2004, 03:41 PM

Thanks Chrissy. Can they tell what type of MS you have when they do these tests? I understand that there are 4 different types, basically a slow-progressive and a fast-progressive. Did they tell you what type you had after your tests?