Accuracy of Brain MRI in MS DX

[JustSteve]

Hi again, looking for some info from those in the know, or other opinionsBasically, I've read on here and on other sites that a brain MRI is 95% accurate when it comes to a dx MS.My questions relate to the 5% that don't have a positive scan (yes I've had a clear brain MRI, but can't shake the MS fear)Firstly, does anybody know if these 5% have completely clear MRI's, or is it likely that other non specific things would showup on the scan, that cannot, at that stage be identified as an MS lesion?Secondly, would this minority continue to have repeated clear MRI's or would it be expected that subsequent scans would showthe tell tale lesions.Many thanksSteve

 

[ZekesTraveller]

I think you may mean that 95% of MS cases arise in the brain. Not that an MRI is 95% accurate. An MRI scans accuracy is at least 95% - 99% accurate when scanning the brain and spinal cord. The other 5% you refer to is 5% of cases that aries in the spinal cord. Of course there are MRI machines and then their are high power MRI machines. I recently underwent a 3 Tesla MRI of the brain and spinal cord. Boy....you can really feel it. The magnetic field is very powerful and you will feel it. I even got electrical shocks when I crosses my fingers and I got very warm because the scan magnetic field is so strong. The scans are magnificent in detail. This removes all doubt about MS being or not being present.