Explanation of result

[HazelSS]

I have been sick for over 3O years with a variety of symptoms that are congruent with ms but was given three separate dx over the years. After connecting the dots, it seems that I don't have three unique illnesses but have ms. I am 52 years old and need help understanding my MRI results before I see neurologist tomorrow.

"There is a cluster of small foci of increased T2/FLAIR signal in the periventricular right sided cerebral white matter. There are no additional potential white lesion matters identified."

Thanks!

[immisceo]

Ideally, your neurologist will be happy to walk you through the results and what he/she feels they may indicate. Usually, on an MRI report, there's a portion called "Impression:" or "Findings:" This is where the radiologist puts forth a hypothesised reason for the MRI results.

However, it's important to note that whatever is written here is simply the opinion of the radiologist. They don't do the diagnosing.

The results you mention give the location in the brain ("periventricular right sided cerebral white matter") and an idea of the size (small foci = something like little pin pricks) and in what MRI sequence they showed up. (T2/FLAIR signal).

There could be multiple reasons for this finding from age to migraine to blood pressure to MS. Your neurologist will be looking at your history, your clinical exams, lab results, etc. to make the call on where you go from here.

If it helps, write down questions you have and bring them to your appointment. They can go so fast that sometimes we walk out forgetting to get the information we wanted.

Best of luck with your appointment.

[HazelSS]

Thanks for responding. I'm pretty sure I do have MS which explains so much. I just wasn't sure if MS could be included as a possibility by this finding. Thankfully, no high blood pressure or migraines and I'm 52.
I got a call at 6:30 this morning that my appt has to re-scheduled until next week. This waiting has been the most difficult but I am coming to terms with my new (yet old) reality.

Thanks again!