Abnormal SSEP and burns in legs
Hi all,
For a muscular pain reason, I went to see a neurologist who performed a set of exams (NCS and EMGs) as well as a quick SSEP (legs) - somatosensory evoked potential.
All exams showed up normal except for the SSEP which showed an increased latency in both legs.
I then did a brain MRI which was perfectly clean.
Since 2 weeks, I experience burning sensation in my left leg, especially when in contact with something (like when sitting on the sofa).
I'm not sure what to think about this, but signs I found may point to MS.
Would anybody already experienced this, especially with abnormal SSEP?
The next appointment with the neurologist is in 2 months, and it's very long to go without answers.
Thanks for your help
Best
, first, I am sorry you are still without a firm diagnosis and two months out from your next appointment.
I cannot offer any medical advice or diagnosis, for your safety. But, an abnormal SSEP can be related to other conditions aside from MS. Generally, with a 'normal' MRI, a physician may be leaning away from a diagnosis of MS, although you can request a lumber puncture (https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/lumbar-puncture) for further clarification. I don't know if your physician will want to do another MRI in two months and see if there's any lesion activity?
Here are some of the conditions that can mimic MS symptoms and that a physician will want to check for -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/ruling-out-other-health-conditions. You may want to see if any of these conditions match what you are experiencing and talk to your doctor about testing for them.
Again, I know waiting for two months while you just have to wonder at what is going on with your health can be pretty challenging and I know time seems to DRAG! I do hope the months go quickly and you do not experience an onset of new or worsening symptoms. I hope that appointment is fruitful and you get some clear answers!
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.Dear Erin,
Thanks for your feedback and the interesting pointers.
At the center, the Dr who performed the MRI explained to me that to be on the safe side, I should get a spine MRI as well on top of the brain one as sometimes signs would be visible on the spine only. The irony is it would take at least 3-4 months to get a slot for that additional MRI...
I'll have to be more patient or try my best to find out shortcuts to get evaluated earlier.
All the best
EliasI was able to accelerate the overall process and to get all the MRIs done.
I'm based in Germany and I had to go out of the insurance covered path and to pay everything by myself, costly but effective time-wise.
The outcome now is that brain MRI as well as spine MRI (performed here in 3 different sessions for upper, middle and lower spine) are normal, no specific signs nor inflammation is visible, as well as no hernia / tumor. This is good news, but leaves, that is good news! And also a little anticlimactic for you? As in, it would be good to have a clear diagnosis. I am sorry you had to pay out-of-pocket, but it sounds like it was the right choice for you. I do hope your physician is willing to help you keep looking for answers as to what's going on in your body.
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
