Last September, I went to my neurologist to see if I could find help since I was going down fast. There was no talk of MS at that time. Now there is. When I was going thru some old tests that I had previously, I found one that I am wondering if it will help the doc to pinpoint MS with assurity. This test was just an xray in April, with a written impression. Here is what it says:

"A left list of the lumbar spine is seen. Degeneration of the apophyseal joint is present at the mid and lower lumbar spine characterized by joint space narrowing, subchondral sclerosis and osteophytes. Asymetrical facet orientation and configuration at the lower lumbar spine. The L5 pars appear sclerotic. This may be stress related. The S1 joints are not clearly visualized most likely the result of technical factors. The hip joints appear grossly unremarkable. Incidentally noted is a benign synovial herniation pit in the right femoral neck. Atherosclerotic calcification plaquing is present within the abdominal aorta."

I do not understand medical terminilogy...all I do know is that the terms "sclerotic" and "plaquing" drew my attention. Does anybody know whether this paper is important? Should I draw my neuro's attention to it?

sally

Sally,

In my opinion - there is nothing in that report that sounds like MS.

If you would like some clarification on the report then by all means bring it to your doctors attention.

While it can't hurt to bring this up with your doctor, x-rays are not used as diagnostic tools for MS. MS lesions do not show up on x-rays. MRIs are the primary imaging technology used to visualize multiple sclerosis lesions on the brain and spine.

I'm not a doctor, and I don't even play one on TV, but I believe the plaques referred to in your report have nothing to do with your nervous system...

Hello Sally,
The advice you've been given on here is quite sound. MS can not be picked up on a regualr radiograph. It does sound like they were describing some type of "Degenerative Disc Disease" in the findings which is not unusual. Not to become alarmed. If I recall, weren't you set up for some tests this week? I don't recall if an MRI was ordered or not, but an MRI and/or Lumbar Puncture would make the diagnosis definitive. You continue to be in my thoughts as always.

All the best,
Chris