Diagnosis
Since Multiple Sclerosis can manifest itself in many ways (see Signs and Symptoms), the condition is not easy to diagnose and cannot be done with any one test.
Tests that are often used include:
- Neurological Examination: a detailed history is taken, and the doctor will seek the hallmark signs of symptoms of MS.
- MRI: scans reveal the area where the myelin damage has occured, very reliable and non-invasive.
- Lumbar Puncture: takes sample of CSF. MS sufferers will have abnormal proteins in the CSF. Often used as a second screen for MS.
- Evoked Potentials: measures the latency of the brain to register stimuli placed on the skin. Tests are ofter performed on the optic nerve as the demyelination commonly decreases its conduction velocity.
Tests such as blood tests and inner ear tests are also carried out to remove any symptoms that may mimic those of MS.
Different tests are then used to further diagnose the classification of MS the patient is suffering from (see Classification Criteria).