Increased signal lesions on brain stem MRI

[grandmalaurie59]

I have had all kinds of neuro symptoms for about 4 months...saw  Primary care, Orthopedic surgeon, neurologist, Spine specialist and even spent 4 days in the hospital. Upon examination by mentioned doctors, and after several MRI's, I do have ONE definate answer...I Have Cevical spondylosis and Cervical Stenosis with compression of my spinal cord on C4-5 and C5-6. Which the surgeon thinks I need surgery after he examined me....the problem is he isn't sure that is ALL that is going on....the MRI of my brain (done at the same time as my cervical spine) all shows increased signals on my brain stem on several pictures..all look different..one lesion is in the shape of a "z", some just show up as bright diffuse bright spots, and others just areas of increased signals, there were apparently NO lesions on the rest of my brain. The neurologist didn't know what to make of these lesions and sent my films to be read by a neuroradiologist. (the report from the MRI doesn't even mention these lesions in any way) A couple of the Dr's think I may have MS and or myelitis.... do to symptoms and examinations.. I am scheduled for an EMG next week....NO spinal tap has been ordered......my question is: Can you have increased signals of different kinds in your brain stem and it mean nothing??? BY the way....I was sent for another brain MRI after the first one...it showed the exact same lesions...I mention that because my neurologist isn't sure if they were "artifacts"....how could they be artifacts if they show up on 2 different MRI's done in 2 different places? I am so confused and frustrated :(  Thank you in advance for your response.   Laurie

[grandmalaurie59]

Just bumped up ....still haven't heard about brain stem lesions  :)

[grandmalaurie59]

Thank you for the encouragement!! It means a lot!!!!!!

[saucygrl]

Laurie,

I'm not sure about the signals and I'm sure someone else will chime in.  It can sometimes be slow on the weekend.  I was diagnosed in November 2011 after 6 years of issues.  I did not have a spinal tap.  Hang in there!  There are lots of people here who understand your frustration.

Just wanted to wish you luck!
Chris