Is MRI with contrast needed?

New diagnosis and before diagnosis
1

For those who have been diagnosed or had diagnosis ruled out, was MRI with contrast essential to the diagnosis process?

I’m not diagnosed and undergoing tests.

I have an appointment in a few days with the neurologist to discuss LP results. I already have a letter which says there are bands in spinal fluid and blood with more in spinal fluid.

I have had MRIs without contrast which showed lesions in brain & spine - these were discussed at previous appointments.

Before my LP was booked in, the neurologist wrote in the plan they want an MRI with contrast also.

Just wanting to mentally prepare myself in case it may not be simply a chat about LP results, and if there is a chance it may be to diagnose or rule out.

Also any tips on questions to ask neurologist at this point are very welcome!

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Usually, yes

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I am not certain but i think if you have contrast, it can show active inflammation.

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Update incase anyone else is wondering the same question - i’ve had my appointment and they confirmed diagnosis of MS.

I will still be having MRI with contrast but it wasn’t needed for diagnosis in my case.

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I had my first and only mri with contrast years after dx. MRI without contrast, examination, clinical history and lumbar puncture was certainly enough to diagnose me.

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I am sorry about your dx. Never nice news to get even when it isn’t a surprise.

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To be honest, i know it isn’t how i should feel but i am so relieved and so happy i can finally have treatment. I’ve known something was very wrong but was so hard getting anyone to believe me so in a odd way I am over the moon I’m being taken seriously now.

I’ve been passed off as depressed/anxiety/low vitamins since about 2011. I’ve been refused for referrals and scans when asked directly. Paid private after years of being told :person_shrugging: in nhs gp appointments only to be dismissed there too as anxiety so they didnt want to run tests. Only thanks to an opticians appointment I got a referral to nhs neurology and I’ll be forever grateful :heart:

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That sounds really tough. I am sorry that you have had such a rough time. I hope that you can now set out on this new phase with more clarity and confidence about what it amiss and what is to be done about it.

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