No plaques = No MS....right?

[aiMelissa]

I have been seeing an neurologist for pain, numbness, tingling, pins and needles sensation, etc in my hands hand feet.  I also have muscle twitches, nystagmus, and fatigue very easily, especially in heat.  My reflexed are hypersensative and my LP showed increase ICP and IgG.  

I had an MRI done w/ contrast of the brain and c-spine.  There were no MS plagues at all and only slight lordosis ? curvature at C5.  Not sure what that is.

So, it is safe to assume I don't have MS?  What other possiblities are there?  I don't see the neuro again until August 14.  I take pain meds and neurotin but I am hurting a lot and just looking for some answers.  I also have an autoimmune liver disease called primary sclerosing cholangitis but it does not cause neurological symptoms.

Thank you,
Melissa

[aiMelissa]

Thanks.  I found out this morning that the MRI machine as a 1.5 tesla, which is not too strong from what I have read.  It is the strongest one in town though.  I will wait for my follow up appointment Aug 14th.  Depending on what he says I will go to the University in Omaha for a second opion and stronger MRI.  

Dr....my vit B 12 was 900 something.  Like 936 I think.  Lyme disease, Lupus, and Sjogrens have all be ruled out as well.  I'm not sure about sarcoidosis though so I will add that to my list of questions.

Thanks!!!

[patsy10]

You may want to see an MS specialist for a second opinion if your doctor is not one.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

MS is not an easy disease to diagnose because there are so many conditions that mimic MS. These are Vitamin B12 deficiency, Lyme disease, Lupus, sarcoidosis, and Sjogren’s syndrome.
The diagnosis is based on two or more neurological signs, classic plaques in MRI of brain and raised IgG in CSF.
An experienced physician will be able to diagnose MS with ease.
I would advise you to discuss these other possibilities with your treating doctor. Let me know if you need more information. Take care!