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Does multiple sclerosis show up on MRI without contrast?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have muscle spasm, nerve pain, numbness, dizziness, and pain while swallowing. I could not move my neck or throat muscle. I also have speech difficulty and difficulty in coordinating my body movements. It is hard to explain, but it feels my mind cannot tell my body to move correctly. Is it possible to check for multiple sclerosis without contrast in the imaging?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern, and as your MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is normal, I would exclude MS (multiple sclerosis). There is no need for contrast when there is no brain lesion. The contrast is used to differentiate between old and new MS lesions. I would recommend performing nerve conduction studies to exclude peripheral neuropathy. It is also important to check your thyroid hormone levels, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 for possible deficiency.

I hope you will find this information helpful.

Take care.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

I have had the nerve conduction study, and no abnormality was detected. However, with my symptoms, they diagnosed my condition as small fiber neuropathy. My last MRI was done seven years back. Is it possible for lesions to be in the brain and spine?

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, the lesions may be present in the cervical spine. For this reason, I would recommend performing a cervical spine MRI. Regarding contrast in MRI, it is not always necessary. Small fiber neuropathy can explain the pain but not muscle spasm.

I hope you will find this information helpful.

Regards.

Answered byDr. Aida Abaz Quka

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At December 30, 2021
Reviewed AtSeptember 27, 2022

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka
Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Neurology

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