Diagnosed with Ms from just a physical observation
Hi all
I was recently diagnosed with benign MS. I saw the Neurologist and from her just giving me a physical she diagnosed me and informed me that I have had it for decades. Naturally my family and I was shocked as we was expecting more testing before diagnosis. I have even had family members question the information I have repeated to them as if I am wrong. It’s been a little crazy! Since then I have had a VEP and MRI and I am not too sure how long they will make me wait before results. My family keep asking when will I begin medication but I really do not know as the Neurologist did mention counselling and medication but did not say when it will be available to me. How long does this process take in the UK? I am so confused.
Hi Mel25, I am not sure you can be diagnosed with MS just from a physical examination but I could be wrong. To my knowledge a diagnosis of MS is ONLY made if you fulfil the "McDonald Criteria". Interestingly though there is one possible neurological physical examination test called the "McArdle Sign". Although this is an old test, it is relatively unheard of but it been shown to only be positive/present in patients with MS. I wish you all the best in your journey
@Mel25 - as @MsHyno says, it is the McDonald criteria. These include MRI results as well as a physical exam and testing your oligoclonal bands (markers in the CSF - cerebral spinal fluid) by that much-loved procedure, a lumbar puncture. Additionally, the concept of 'benign' MS is outdated and quite dangerous. MS is serious stuff and you deserve a neurologist who takes it seriously. I'd ask my GP to refer me to an MS Specialist Centre in a teaching hospital. Find out which is nearest. Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leicester, Bristol, Cardiff, Oxford, and London (Imperial, Barts, Queens Square) are the ones that come immediately to mind though there are more.