Mixed Messages from Docs
Hi all,
New here and in the diagnosis process. I had my brain MRI recently after a lot of new symptoms. PCP initially suspected MS. The radiologist report said that demyelinating disease possible if clinical signs (had about 4 small lesions found on T2 flair).
But my PCP called and said he talked to the radiologist and said there’s no signs of MS and despite the spots on my MRI, it was “basically normal.” This is in comparison to a completely normal MRI in 2019 and no history of migraines.
Has anyone else had mixed messages like this? I don’t see the neurologist I was referred to for another 2 months. And I’m unsure how accurate radiologists are in the diagnosis process. Thank you in advance.
Just for background, I’m 30 and my symptoms are:
Vision problems
New clumsiness/falling/coordination issues
Trouble forming sentences/works
Altered skin sensations
Numbness in hands and feet on left side (comes and goes)
Muscle spasms in rib cage
, first, I am so sorry you are stuck in this diagnosis limbo for another couple of months! How exasperating! Unfortunately, I know other community members have experienced either mixed messages from healthcare providers or even a misdiagnosis. If possible, you may want to see if you can get in to the neurologist any earlier, although I know it may not be likely. Radiologists can be very good at what they do (reading images), but they are really not able to make a full diagnosis based strictly on your MRI results. That's for a physician to do.
If you have any doubts, you also have every right to seek a second (or third!) opinion, although waiting 'til after your neurologist appointment might make sense.
Also, there are a number of conditions which can mimic MS symptoms and a physician will generally try to rule those out as they are seeking a diagnosis. You can read about those conditions here -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/ruling-out-other-health-conditions.
I do hope you get a clear diagnosis soon! And, that whatever it is, your physician is able to offer you some viable treatment options.
Good luck and please keep us posted, if you feel comfortable doing so.
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.Erin you are so helpful and kind. Just what an old girl like me needs to read. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! Angel
Sorry you are dealing with this, but I can relate. My radiology report said can't rule out demyelinating desease, but can not confirm it. However, family physician and two emerg doctors belief it to be MS, based on history and symptoms. I wouldn't trust a radiologisy report by itself, particularly of it goes in hand with symptoms. Hang in there and best of luck🌸
