How signficant is the Lumbar puncture results

[cheer-mom]

How signficant would you say the lumbar puncture(they were negative) is if the MRI shows lesions?

[Leaf]

If a lumbar puncture is the same as a spinal tap, it's my understanding that it's only done to rule out other causes for MS-like symptoms, and the MRI is considered the actual test for MS. That was my personal experience, anyway.
Leaf

[cheer-mom]

Thanks for the reply, yes it is the same as a spinal tap. They ruled out Lyme's and all the other stuff but I know they also look for oligeprotiens (spelling on that?) and they did not see any which is the key with demylating disease. I am afraid to get my hopes up and actually would be satisfied with any answer than to live in limbo!!

[DianaJ]

My understanding is that neither the MRI or the Spinal will tell that you don't have MS.
But if positive, they are good indicators that you DO have it.
There is no concrete test to prove you have MS.
There is a woman in my town who has MS and has had it for 30+ years and both tests show negative.
The rule that my doctor uses is two exacerbations divided in time by a period of 3-4 weeks and last ing atleast a week, or something to that effect.
My MRI and spinal was negative, but other problems like lymes and the like were ruled out leaving them with only MS as a diagnosis.

Hope this helps!