I had my LP on May 13. I have called every week since then and they tell me that it is going to take additional weeks. Today, they told me yet another week to get the results. They are waiting on the Oband results. Does it really take this long?
Ive never heard of it taking that long- I had mine within a week; HOWEVER that doesnt mean they arent looking for a result for something that does take that long..
They can rule out quite a bit with LP fluid...
I would start complaining if it takes more then one more week! But in the meantime, you have to assume that no news is good news! If the lab had found anything scary, they would have let your doc know immediately! There must be "one more " thing they are waiting on..
Hang in there...and let us know how it turns out!
Nikki
Waiting is the hardest part. Remember the LP will not indicate MS, it excludes other diseases. Of MS patients receiving the LP (not 100% do), only 85% test positive which eventually leads to a MS diagnosis.
I agree that if something profound had been determined, you would already have the info. Relax and the results will be there soon enough.
__________________
MS diagnosed since October 3, 1982
MS onset circa 1977
Proud to be MED FREE!
Eternally blessed and eternally optimistic!<><
MSJayhawk, I am confused. You say the LP will not indicate MS. My LP came back negative so I thought that meant it was less likely I had MS even though my MRI showed multiple leisons. This is so confusing.
Krbuerg, my results only took a week and the neuro's nurse called and said, "it's normal", but I am still unsure what that means.
Why is this so hard to diagnose? I have a hard time understanding or even remembering what the doctor says, but from what I understand we have to wait until there is a major, hospital needed flare which could take years, before we can be diagnosed. Does this sound right? If so Krbuerg it sounds like waiting has just begun.
MSJayhawk, I am confused. You say the LP will not indicate MS. My LP came back negative so I thought that meant it was less likely I had MS even though my MRI showed multiple leisons. This is so confusing.
I have had 2 LP's, 20 years apart. Both have been negative, and yet I have MS. 15% of MS patients who choose to have a LP are negative, but still have MS. The LP is only one tool to exclude what it is you do not have.
If the LP was 100% accurate, then there would be no limbo land and diagnoses would be easily done. As it is, this is not the case. This is one of the difficulties with MS. Multiple lesions may or may not be MS. Many viral infections can leave you with lesions and scars.
Confusing? Yes, and this is why MS is so difficult to diagnose as well as to even start working on a cure. Until then, much prayer!!
__________________
MS diagnosed since October 3, 1982
MS onset circa 1977
Proud to be MED FREE!
Eternally blessed and eternally optimistic!<><
Have had 3 LPs, all negative...however have 50 lesions on my brain and definately have MS! The LP is a great tool at finding out what you DONT have, ie. infections and such...but its not the best diagnostic tool for a positive MS diagnosis.
Nikki
Yes, that is what my doc said. She said I need to go several months with numbness and tingling, etc. I have had major problems with my arms and legs, but since I passed the office exam and the EMG, no brain legions either, that's what she told me. Wait, wait, wait!!
I have told the neurologist I am seeing that I have the tingling, numbness and also jolts and cramping and have for months,but she said neurologically I am ok, which is different from what your dr said.
I have my lp next week. What else can it show besides infections?
There are many diseases which can present with symptoms similar to MS. Think of the process as a large funnel. As you get closer to your diagnosis, more disease are excluded and the focus becomes narrowed.
MS can still happen without lesions "appearing". It may take time for lesions to "light-up" the MRI. Prior to 1982, doctors had to diagnose without "seeing lesions". If you look-up McDonald Criteria, you will find that there are many tests involved. Make yourself aware of the criteria and hold your doctor to following the guidelines. Limbo land is not an enjoyable time for anyone.
__________________
MS diagnosed since October 3, 1982
MS onset circa 1977
Proud to be MED FREE!
Eternally blessed and eternally optimistic!<><
Are lesions and calcifications the same? I have multiple unusual calcifications and abnormal brain shrinkage for my age. The dr said it could be something I was born with so another cat scan in October will be done to see if there are changes. Like said, a waiting game.
I personally would have guessed sjogrens, but like you said process of elimination.
Are lesions and calcifications the same? I have multiple unusual calcifications and abnormal brain shrinkage for my age. The dr said it could be something I was born with so another cat scan in October will be done to see if there are changes. Like said, a waiting game.
I personally would have guessed sjogrens, but like you said process of elimination.
From what I have read, calcification in the brain is seen with a CAT Scan and not the MRI. CAT Scans are used to view non-neurological concerns versus the MRI which is the only current tool to "see" neurological concerns. Calcification and lesions are different.
Your next CAT Scan should be of benefit to see whether your calcification has been with you since childhood. Lesions, seen through the MRI, will present as dark areas as the scar tissue is absorbed. Active lesions, under contrast solution, will appear on the MRI as "glowing".
__________________
MS diagnosed since October 3, 1982
MS onset circa 1977
Proud to be MED FREE!
Eternally blessed and eternally optimistic!<><
Thank you for the explanation regarding the difference between lesions and calcifications. I guess the dr was right in the fact I have lost a valuable tool because I can't have a MRI as the result of being burned in one.
So, I guess I too keep on playing the waiting game.
It is hard not be concerned when different symptoms take place. They seem to rotate. Today it is shaky legs and electrical jolts. Thank goodness the vice around my upper stomach has eased.
Is unexplained bruising connected at all? I have had 3 huge bruises, one the size of a horse hoof in the last few weeks. No recollection of hitting anything.
