Hello Chelle,

Yes, I was diagnosed based on a positive LP (o-bands), neuro exam and symptoms. However, during the whole diagnostic process I was in a severe exacerbation (relapse, attack, flare-up)...it was very obvious something was wrong.

Depending on the lab that ran your LP results 2 o-bands can be considered normal, you will need to see what your Neurologist says to know for sure.

Best wishes

Hi, Snoopy.

Originally, my former Neuro said "MS", and then, he retracted the DX. So, my Neurosurgeon has referred me to a new Neurologist, and I am just waiting for an appt.

Thank You,
Chelle

Under the new McDonald Criteria, you would need to have at least 1 lesion to be dx with MS. (http://www.mult-sclerosis.org/DiagnosticCriteria.html) I was diagnosed under the 1st criteria. I have both brain and spinal lesions. I never had an LP so I don't know what my o bands are. However, o bands can occur in other conditions as well. It's the pattern of o bands that can assist in a dx of MS or other conditions.

But, MRI's are not 100% dependable. MRI's are done in 1/4" slices. Within that 1/4" a lesion may have been missed. I know that may sound scary to you but it does happen. I think many of us have experienced going for an MRI and getting the results and finding out that a few lesions are "gone" and on the next MRI they are back again. It's that 1/4" slice issue. Additionally, spinal lesions are very difficult to find not only due to the 1/4" slice but also due to all the things that are compacted in the spinal cord. They are easy to miss. Mine are in my thoracic spine. They show up best when I am in a flare and gadolinium is used.

Since your neuro took back his dx, he may have decided to be a little more conservative since at this point you don't fit the McDonald Criteria and there may be something else going.

I do hope you start feeling better soon and can find out what is going on.

No, Erin, I don't fit under the new McDonald criteria, so I am wondering if there is any point in seeing a new Neuro.

I've been like this since the fall of '05, so I don't feel any optimism that I will ever get any help.

Chelle

Don't give up!!! Something is going on and it may just take some more time and the right dr. I know it must be so hard and frustrating for you and you have been suffering for a long time. But, keep at it. If anything, finding something that will treat the symptoms until you get a definite dx will help. Also, did any of this happen after having a virus? Viruses can cause a CNS infection and some of the issues you are having.

Just hang in there the best you can and definitely keep checking in with us. We are always here for you.