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660872 tn?1238641245

Should I have another MRI

Hi,   I had an MRI of my lumbar spine for low back pain and bilateral thigh pain and numbness.  The results showed degeneration of the facet joints, severe at L3-L4.  It also showed desicatted (sp) discs etc.  The finding that I'm inquiring about was "the appearance of the nerves within the thecal sac indicates arachnoiditis".  Does this mean that I definitely have arachnoiditis? I didn't have any IV contrast, should the MRI be repeated using contrast? Is there a better test to determine if I definitely have arachnoiditis?   Thank you.  Arachnaphob
2 Responses
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301037 tn?1213864578
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
For diagnosing arachnoiditis Contrast enhanced study is definitely indicated to look adherent enhancing nerve roots. Arachnoiditis is a broad term denoting inflammation of the meninges and subarachnoid space. A variety of etiologies exist, including infectious, inflammatory, and neoplastic processes. Infectious etiologies include bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic agents. Noninfectious inflammatory processes include surgery, intrathecal hemorrhage, and the administration of intrathecal agents such as myelographic contrast media, anesthetics, and steroids.

Helpful - 1
660872 tn?1238641245
Thank you for your response.  I will ask my doctor for a referral for MRI with contrast.

Thanks again,

Chirley
Helpful - 0

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