Spinal Tap Again???

[ampky]

I had two strokes in my 30s (I'm now 43.). Unfortunately, my health still declines (balance issues, need a walker at all times, intermittent double vision, pins and needles down arm, etc). I had a spinal tap around seven years ago that showed I did NOT have MS.

Would it make sense to ask for another spinal tap? Since it was confirmed via spinal tap seven years ago, does it make sense to get another one?

Thanks for your time!

[Lulu54]

Alex is right - 15% or so of people with MS do not show signs in their CSF.  The thing about the LP is it neither proves or disproves MS, it is just used as supporting evidence.  I would have that serious talk with your doctor- the majority of us have no problem with the LP, but then again there are people who aren't so fortunate.

Does your neurological exam come up with signs that indicate MS ?  I would want to know that first.

-Laura

[HVAC]

What they look for is O-bands in the CSF and no  O-bands in the blood serum taken at the same time. They are like tree rings   showing inflammation. They never go away. They wanted me to keep having LPs until they got MS. Many people with MS have Negative LPs for MS. My Neurologist would not diagnose me with out a positive LP. Luckily my first LP showed MS. If you were just starting with MS ten years ago you might of had a normal LP and now seven years later have  one showing MS .I personally do not know if I would have more than one LP. It is hard decision.

Alex